The poem Death and the Gardener, published in 1926, remains the most recognized work by Pieter Nicolaas van Eyck. Drawing on themes from Jean Cocteau’s novel Le grand écart, which in turn adapted material from Rumi and the Babylonian Talmud, this literary piece highlights the philosophical depth characteristic of his wider contributions to Dutch letters and critical thought.
Early Development and Professional Beginnings
Born Pieter Nicolaas van Eijk in Breukelen in 1887, he adopted the name van Eyck around 1907. His foundational education took place at Gymnasium Haganum before he pursued legal studies. Following his initial education, he established a career as a journalist and foreign correspondent, reporting from London and Rome for the Dutch newspaper NRC while simultaneously developing his craft as a poet, essayist, and philosopher.
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In 1935, van Eyck assumed the professorship for Dutch language and literature at Leiden University, filling the vacancy created by the resignation of Albert Verwey. He maintained this academic position for the remainder of his life, until 1954. His scholarly reputation grew significantly during these years, leading to his election as a member of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences in 1946.
Personal Life and Recognition
He married Nelly Estelle Benjamins, who was born in Suriname in 1891, on 28 April 1914. The couple relocated to Great Britain in 1919 and had two sons, Robert Floris and the architect Aldo van Eyck. Pieter Nicolaas van Eyck received the Constantijn Huygens Prize in 1947 in recognition of his literary impact. He was also a member of the Koninklijke Academie voor Nederlandse Taal- en Letterkunde.
Fast facts
- Born: 1887, Breukelen
- Died: 1954, Wassenaar
- Citizenship: Kingdom of the Netherlands
- Notable Work: Death and the Gardener (1926)
- Academic Employer: Leiden University (1935-1954)
- Award: Constantijn Huygens Prize (1947)
- Education: Gymnasium Haganum
- Spouse: Nelly Estelle Benjamins
Questions readers ask
What subjects did van Eyck teach at university?
He served as a professor for Dutch language and literature at Leiden University.
Did van Eyck have any notable associations?
He was a member of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences and the Koninklijke Academie voor Nederlandse Taal- en Letterkunde.
Achievements
- Constantijn Huygens Prize — 1947
- Held posts at Leiden University and Leiden University
