Nizozemské listy – Šebestík Ivo (2018)

The title of Ivo Šebestík's 'Dutch Letters' may refer to the well-known travel essays by Karel Čapek, such as 'English Letters', 'Italian Letters', or 'Pictures from Holland'. In his unique cultural and historical guide to the Netherlands, Ivo Šebestík creates a detailed picture of the Dutch provinces and ancient cities, while also engagingly introducing the historical milestones of this country, its rich culture, and artistic personalities from the literary, visual, architectural, musical, and philosophical worlds. He also pays attention to the connections between Holland and Bohemia, not limiting himself to Jan Amos Comenius. The text, packed with facts, names, and events, is enriched by the author's experiences and numerous captivating observations from contemporary Holland, including a character sketch of its inhabitants, cuisine, and the charming and unmistakable color of this spatially confined and densely populated European country, which is in a perpetual struggle with the sea for its carefully cultivated territories. The book is complemented by authentic drawings by the author's brother, Karel Šebestík.