Jan Campert facts for kids
text reads:
A cell is barely two meter long
and little two meter wide
smaller though, is the plot of land,
I do not know as yet,
but where I will rest in anonymity,
like me my friends,
we were eighteen all together,
none will see the dawn.
Jan Remco Theodoor Campert (born in Spijkenisse, Netherlands, on 15 August 1902 – died on 12 January 1943) was a Dutch writer, journalist, and theater critic. He lived in Amsterdam and became famous for his powerful poems. During World War II, he bravely helped people in need.
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Who Was Jan Campert?
Jan Campert was an important Dutch writer. He was born in 1902 and grew up to be a journalist and critic. He wrote many poems and articles. His work often showed his deep feelings and thoughts about life.
Jan Campert's Famous Poem
Jan Campert is best known for his poem called "Het lied der achttien dooden", which means "The Song of the Eighteen Dead". He wrote this poem in 1941. It tells the sad story of 18 brave people who were part of the resistance movement. They were executed by the German occupiers during World War II.
The poem became a symbol of hope and resistance. It was secretly printed in 1943. People sold copies of the poem to raise money. This money was used to help hide Jewish children from danger. This act of bravery helped many young lives.
His Courage During World War II
During the German occupation of the Netherlands in World War II, Jan Campert showed great courage. He was arrested because he helped Jewish people. Helping others during this time was very dangerous. He was sent to the Neuengamme concentration camp, where he sadly died in 1943. His actions showed his strong belief in helping others, even when it put his own life at risk.
Jan Campert's Legacy
Jan Campert's legacy lives on. His son, Remco Campert, also became a well-known novelist and poet. This shows how writing talent can run in families.
To honor Jan Campert and his contributions to Dutch literature, a special award was created. The Jan Campert Prize is named after him. This prize is given to writers for their excellent work in poetry. It helps keep his memory alive and inspires new generations of writers.
