Gedicht uit archief Jan Veth 1865 - 1930

This is "Gedicht uit archief Jan Veth," a poem by Jac van Looij, undated and handwritten on a piece of paper. Van Looij was part of the Dutch art scene at the turn of the century, a period marked by shifts in artistic expression and social values. The poem seems to reflect on the artist's struggle between artistic integrity and societal expectations. The lines suggest a tension between the pursuit of art for its own sake and the pressures of financial gain or critical acclaim. Phrases like "Wat doe jij in ons gilde" hint at the exclusivity and perhaps the judgment within the artistic community, while questioning traditional roles. Van Looij uses emotionally charged and personal language, reflecting on his emotional state. He questions why he shouldn’t live cheerfully among his peers, so long as he can be merry. The poem invites us to consider how artists navigate their identities and personal values within a broader cultural and economic landscape. It speaks to the universal experience of balancing passion with the demands of everyday life.