La tombe de fer

In a quiet village, two youngsters drift through a sun‑dappled graveyard, gathering bluebells and poppies to weave a bright crown. Janneken, thoughtful and meticulous, braids the blossoms into a delicate diadem for his friend Mieken, whose laughter lights the stone‑laden path. The surrounding church tower, low and sturdy, watches over the rows of modest crosses as a gentle breeze stirs the flowers that shade the resting souls.

Their play turns to quiet contemplation as they pause beside the fresh grave of little Lotte, a chariot maker’s daughter. The children exchange tender thoughts about heaven, angels, and the comfort of an afterlife where every day feels like Sunday. Their innocent dialogue mixes wonder with a hint of melancholy, highlighting how childhood can grasp both beauty and the mystery of loss. The opening chapter sets a lyrical tone, inviting listeners to linger in a world where simple gestures echo deeper reflections on life, memory, and hope.