
A lively collection of medieval Flemish folklore invites listeners into a world where ordinary taverns become portals for the uncanny. In the first tale, a cheerful innkeeper named Pieter Gans is haunted by a mournful voice that cries for drink, while a phantom flame sweeps across his garden. The relentless wailing drags the once‑jovial host into a gaunt, despondent state, hinting at hidden forces that stalk even the most familiar streets.
When a hearty brewer named Jan Blaeskaek arrives, his good‑natured counsel offers a chance to break the spell, but the solution is far from simple. Pieter’s choice between offering water or the prized ale sets the stage for a tense, almost comic battle of wills with an unseen thirst. The story weaves humor, superstition, and moral curiosity, promising a listening experience that feels both timeless and oddly intimate.
Language
en
Duration
~5 hours (289K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Credits
Produced by Jeroen Hellingman and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net/ for Project Gutenberg (This file was produced from images generously made available by The Internet Archive/American Libraries.)
Release date
2011-10-08
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1827–1879
Best known for turning the folk hero Ulenspiegel into the heart of a sweeping historical novel, this Belgian writer helped give his country a distinct voice in French-language literature. His work mixes satire, legend, and fierce sympathy for ordinary people.
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