“Komt een vrouw bij de dokter” is a Dutch novel written by Ray Kluun and published in 2003. The title translates to “A woman goes to the doctor” in English. The novel tells the story of a successful advertising executive, Stijn, who has a seemingly perfect life with his wife Carmen and their young daughter Luna. However, their world is turned upside down when Carmen is diagnosed with breast cancer.
The novel explores the impact of Carmen’s illness on their marriage, as well as Stijn’s struggle to cope with the emotional turmoil and the demands of caring for his sick wife. As Carmen’s health deteriorates, Stijn finds solace in an affair with another woman, Roos. The novel delves into themes of love, infidelity, grief, and the ways in which people cope with life-changing events.
“Komt een vrouw bij de dokter” received critical acclaim and became a bestseller in the Netherlands. The novel was also adapted into a film in 2009, starring Carice van Houten, Barry Atsma, and Anna Drijver. The film was a commercial success and received several awards for its performances and direction.
The novel has sparked debates and discussions about the portrayal of infidelity, illness, and grief in literature and media. Some critics have praised Kluun for his honest and raw portrayal of the complexities of relationships and the impact of illness on families. Others have criticized the novel for its portrayal of Stijn’s actions and decisions, questioning his motives and moral compass.
Overall, “Komt een vrouw bij de dokter” is a poignant and emotional novel that explores the fragility of life and the complexities of love and relationships. It challenges readers to confront difficult questions about fidelity, morality, and the ways in which people navigate grief and loss.