The Drowned Land
1996 Nominated

The Drowned Land

From French to English
artwork-image

ABOUT
THE BOOK

This novella takes the form of a legend, loosely based on the story of Atlantis: a land lost to mankind which once existed as a kingdom without war, pain or fear of death.

ABOUT
THE AUTHOR Paul
Willems

Paul Willems was a notable Belgian author and playwright known for his contributions to modern literature, particularly in the 20th century. Born on April 4, 1912, Willems was the son of poet Marie Gevers and spent his formative years at the family estate, Missembourg, which heavily influenced his works, emphasizing themes of nature and lost paradise. Throughout his career, he accomplished a significant body of work, including novels, collections of short stories, and numerous plays, which were translated into over twelve languages and performed worldwide, especially gaining popularity in Germany.
Paul Willems was a notable Belgian author and playwright known for his contributions to modern literature, particularly in the 20th century. Born on April 4, 1912, Willems was the son of poet Marie Gevers and spent his formative years at the family estate, Missembourg, which heavily influenced his works, emphasizing themes of nature and lost paradise. Throughout his career, he accomplished a significant body of work, including novels, collections of short stories, and numerous plays, which were translated into over twelve languages and performed worldwide, especially gaining popularity in Germany.

ABOUT
THE TRANSLATOR Donald
Flanell Friedmann

ABOUT
THE TRANSLATOR Suzanne
Burgoyne

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Country
USA
Original Language
French
Author
Publisher
Peter Lang
Translator
Suzanne Burgoyne, Donald Flanell Friedmann
Translation
From French to English

RELATED FEATURES

News May 21 2026

2026 Dublin Literary Award Winner Revealed

Discover this year's winner!
Video May 16 2026

Brigitte Giraud – Live Fast Q&A

Q&A Session with 2026 Dublin Literary Award shortlisted author Brigitte Giraud, author of Live Fast, exploring the inspirations behind her novel.
Video May 12 2026

Laurent Binet – Perspective(s) Q&A

Check out our Q&A with Laurent Binet, author of shortlisted title Perspective(s), as he discusses the inspirations behind his work and reflects on the role libraries have played in shaping his journey
Video May 8 2026

Ali Smith – Gliff Q&A

Shortlisted author Ali Smith discusses the creative inspirations behind Gliff and reflects on the significance of libraries throughout her reading and writing life in our latest Q&A.

STAY CONNECTED

Stay in touch and sign up to our newsletter to receive all the latest news and updates on the Dublin Literary Award.