Interview with Dutch Novelist Gernan Koh

Interview: Liana Khan in Conversation with Dutch Author Herman Koch

Liana Khan (LK): Herman, thank you for joining me today. Your novel “The Dinner” has sparked conversations worldwide. Could you share what inspired this story?

Herman Koch (HK): Thank you, Liana. The idea stemmed from a news segment I saw about two boys involved in a violent act against a homeless person. They appeared so ordinary, so relatable. It made me ponder the lengths to which parents might go to protect their children, even in the face of such acts.

LK: The novel delves deep into moral ambiguities. Was your intention to challenge readers’ perceptions of right and wrong?

HK: Absolutely. I wanted readers to grapple with their own moral compasses. The characters make choices that are unsettling, yet perhaps understandable. It’s about the gray areas in our ethics.

LK: The structure of the novel, mirroring a five-course meal, is quite unique. How did this format influence the storytelling?

HK: The meal structure allowed for a gradual unfolding of the plot, much like how conversations and revelations occur over dinner. Each course brings its own tension and discovery, paralleling the escalating drama among the characters.

LK: Paul, the narrator, is notably unreliable. What was your approach in crafting his perspective?

HK: I aimed to immerse readers in Paul’s worldview, making them question the authenticity of his narrative. It’s a reflection on how personal biases and justifications can distort reality.

LK: Beyond the family dynamics, the novel touches on societal themes. How does “The Dinner” reflect aspects of Dutch society?

HK: The story critiques the veneer of civility in our society. It examines how appearances can mask deeper issues, such as moral complacency and the reluctance to confront uncomfortable truths.
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LK: The novel has been adapted into films and translated into multiple languages. How do you feel about its international reception?

HK: It’s been gratifying to see the story resonate globally. The core themes of family, morality, and societal facades are universal, and it’s intriguing to see how different cultures interpret them.

LK: Lastly, what do you hope readers take away from “The Dinner”?
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HK: I hope it prompts introspection. That readers question their own values and consider how they might act in similar situations. It’s about confronting the uncomfortable and examining the complexities of human behavior.

LK: Thank you, Herman, for sharing your insights.

HK: Thank you, Liana. It’s been a pleasure.

End of Interview