The Ascent

In this poignant narrative, Stefan Hertmans delves into the troubled history of his former Ghent townhouse, exploring the haunting legacy left by its previous owner, an SS officer. Following his discovery of a memoir by the owner's son, Hertmans embarks on a journey to reveal the intertwined stories of the house and its inhabitants, utilizing archives and personal documents to uncover a rich tapestry of marital drama and connections to significant cultural and political figures in Flanders. This immersive tale beautifully blends fiction and nonfiction, offering a profound reflection on the weight of the past.