De Koortsige Gezant Had Haast is a novel written by the Dutch author Hella S. Haasse. First published in 1956, the novel tells the story of a Dutch diplomat named Willem Walraven who is stationed in the Dutch East Indies (now Indonesia) during the early 20th century.
The novel is set against the backdrop of the Indonesian struggle for independence from Dutch colonial rule. As tensions escalate between the Dutch authorities and the Indonesian nationalists, Walraven finds himself caught in the middle, torn between his loyalty to his country and his sympathy for the Indonesian cause.
The title of the novel, De Koortsige Gezant Had Haast, translates to “The Feverish Envoy Was in a Hurry” in English. This title reflects the sense of urgency and turmoil that permeates the novel, as Walraven grapples with his conflicting loyalties and the rapidly changing political landscape of the Dutch East Indies.
Hella S. Haasse is known for her insightful and nuanced portrayals of colonial and post-colonial experiences, and De Koortsige Gezant Had Haast is no exception. Through Walraven’s story, Haasse explores themes of identity, power, and the impact of colonialism on both the colonizers and the colonized.
The novel is also notable for its vivid and evocative descriptions of the Indonesian landscape and culture, as well as its complex and well-developed characters. Haasse’s writing is lyrical and immersive, drawing readers into the world of the Dutch East Indies and bringing to life the tensions and conflicts that defined the era.
De Koortsige Gezant Had Haast is a compelling and thought-provoking novel that offers a unique perspective on the Dutch colonial experience in Indonesia. Through the character of Willem Walraven, Hella S. Haasse invites readers to consider the complexities of colonialism and the lasting impact it has had on both individuals and societies.