Chameleon | Nachtroer

This collection features the works of Charlotte Van den Broeck, combining Chameleon and Nachtroer into a compelling exploration of identity and human experience.

Belgian poet Charlotte Van den Broeck has emerged as one of Europe's most innovative voices in contemporary poetry. Her first English translation, Chameleon | Nachtroer, brings together her debut volume, Chameleon (2015), and its sequel, Nachtroer (2017). The title refers to an all-night shop in Antwerp, where Van den Broeck resides, symbolizing the vibrant life and culture that permeates her work.

Chameleon presents a collection of poems that may seem naïve at first glance but are infused with irony and subversive playfulness. These poems chronicle a young girl's quest for identity, weaving a coming-of-age narrative that explores the complexities of body and language. Through vivid memories, shapes, and landscapes, the poems invite readers to reflect on their own journeys of self-discovery.

In Nachtroer, the tone shifts as the poems delve into themes of heartbreak, insomnia, and the chaotic rhythm of daily life. The poet's desire for disappearance and dissolution permeates this collection, creating a haunting yet beautiful exploration of the human condition. The concluding poems of both collections resonate with the imagery of the ocean and the act of building a boat, symbolizing a readiness for the voyage ahead. Together, Chameleon | Nachtroer offers a profound and immersive experience in English, showcasing Van den Broeck's unique voice and artistic vision.