Zomergasten Podcast - Bessel van der Kolk

Published in 1949, '1984' is a cautionary tale by George Orwell that explores the dangers of totalitarianism. The novel is set in a dystopian future where the world is divided into three super-states, with the protagonist Winston Smith living in Oceania, ruled by the mysterious and omnipotent leader Big Brother. Winston works at the Ministry of Truth, where he rewrites historical records to conform to the Party's ever-changing narrative. He begins an illicit love affair with Julia and starts to rebel against the Party, but they are eventually caught and subjected to brutal torture and indoctrination. The novel highlights themes of government surveillance, manipulation of language and history, and the suppression of individual freedom and independent thought.

In this book, Dr. Bessel van der Kolk uses recent scientific advances to show how trauma reshapes both the body and brain, compromising sufferers’ capacities for pleasure, engagement, self-control, and trust. He explores various treatments, including neurofeedback, meditation, sports, drama, and yoga, which activate the brain’s natural neuroplasticity to aid in recovery. The book emphasizes the power of relationships in both causing and healing trauma and offers hope through descriptions of novel approaches to treatment. It is based on Dr. van der Kolk’s own research and that of other leading specialists in the field.

De aanslag, published in 1982, is a novel by Harry Mulisch that tells the story of Anton Steenwijk, a 12-year-old boy whose life is drastically changed when his family is killed by the Nazis in retaliation for the execution of a collaborator. The novel spans several decades, from 1945 to 1981, and follows Anton's quest to understand the events of that fateful night. Through various encounters, Anton gradually uncovers the truth about the assault and its aftermath, grappling with moral ambiguity and the lasting impact of the war on his life. The book is a blend of thriller and moral-philosophical novel, exploring themes of loss, mourning, and the complexities of guilt and innocence during wartime.