Abstract
M.A. (Afrikaans)
This study explores the nature, role and function of letters (i.e. epistolary
communication) in Etienne van Heerden’s novels, In stede van die liefde (In love’s
place) (2005) and 30 nagte in Amsterdam (30 nights in Amsterdam) (2008). Existing
theoretical insights into the so-called epistolary novel (novel of letters), as well as the
role of letters in literary texts, are used as point of departure for an in-depth analysis
of each novel.
Botha (1987:149) defines the epistolary novel as “a novel consisting entirely or in
part of letters, diary fragments or other relevant documentation, while a foreword
and/or conclusion by a fictional editor/publisher can also be included” (my translation
– FB). Though neither In stede van die liefde and 30 nagte in Amsterdam at first
sight seem to be epistolary novels, both meet with the requirements of Botha’s
(1987:149) definition in the sense that they partly consist of letters. Botha’s
(1987:149) definition also contains no specific indication of exactly how many letters
or diary fragments a novel should include to be considered an epistolary novel.
From a study of the letters in Van Heerden’s novels it becomes evident that In stede
van die liefde and 30 nagte in Amsterdam do not display all the features of the
epistolary novel. Some defining characteristics are deliberately deviated from or
undermined, while other characteristics are identified in the novels that serve as
supplement to existing theoretical approaches to the epistolary novel.
In both novels, for example, letters function as catalysts for action, while they are
sometimes used as part of the narration or to expose the inner life (thoughts) of
characters. In addition letters are also used to provide background information and to
act as historical documents.
Among other things, it is indicated that most of the letters in In stede van die liefde
and 30 nagte in Amsterdam do in fact not fulfil the traditional purpose of letters, as
two-way communication is not established in all of them. It can justifiably be argued,
therefore, that letters rather reveal something more symbolic about the psyche of the
characters who act as letter writers in the novels.
A textual analysis of the two Van Heerden novels clearly indicates that both In stede
van die liefde and 30 nagte in Amsterdam should be considered innovative with
regard to the use of letters. The complexity, richness and literary quality of these
novels require many different interpretations, however, with the investigation into the
role of letters as only one possible way in which insight can be obtained into these
impressive literary achievements.