Book Presentation of Vita by Filip Keymeulen
Invitation from the Author
It is with great pride that I invite you all to the presentation of Vita, my second novel. On Tuesday, 17 November at 7:00 p.m., the Beguinage Church will open its doors to welcome you.
Vita brings to life the harsh reality of street life in Brussels through a story filled with respect for those who face hardship in our society. You will follow Goedele, Michiel, and Petronella, three characters who will not leave you untouched. The book avoids no taboo and challenges readers to confront their reality head-on. It is a moving and at times confronting story that reveals human beings in all their vulnerability, while remaining remarkably engaging and accessible. Through their stories, I seek to connect the fiction with pressing realities of today: homelessness, sex work, and psychological vulnerability.
My initial aim was simply to tell the kind of story I would enjoy reading myself: characters shaped by a present influenced by their past and often haunted by an uncertain future. Those who have already read the book pointed out that it also offers a valuable glimpse into a reality that many of us hesitate to face.
For that reason, the book launch will include a panel discussion exploring these issues in greater depth, featuring among others:
- Pascal Debruyne, researcher at Odisee;
- Steven Gibens, Head of the Social Work Programme at Odisee;
- Olivier Slosse, Chief of Police for the Brussels North Police Zone;
- a representative of UTSOPI, the Belgian Union of Sex Workers.
The church offers plenty of space, so feel free to bring someone along. Do you know people who work on these issues professionally, are personally involved, or are simply concerned as residents of Brussels? Then this invitation is for them as well. Please do not hesitate to share it.
A warm welcome to all!
