Picture a Belgian storyteller who spun cosmic tales and sharp satires that left readers questioning reality—meet Paul Van Herck! This science fiction visionary, born in 1938, blended humor, imagination, and social commentary to craft stories that still resonate today. From his award-winning novel Where Were You Last Pluterday? to his gripping radio plays, Van Herck’s work is a delightful dive into the unknown.
The Making of Paul Van Herck
Born on May 19, 1938, in Berchem, near Antwerp, Paul Van Herck was a Flemish writer with a knack for languages. As a Dutch and French teacher, he honed his storytelling skills in the classroom before leaping into the world of science fiction. His early career kicked off with radio plays for Belgium’s BRT, but it was his work with the Dutch TROS network that made him a household name, especially his thrilling series about NASA astronaut Matt Meldon.
Paul Van Herck’s Unforgettable Stories
Van Herck’s most famous work, Sam, of de Pluterdag (1968), translated as Where Were You Last Pluterday?, is a satirical gem that won the first prize at the 1972 European Science Fiction Convention in Trieste. The novel imagines a society where the wealthy enjoy an extra day—Pluterday—hidden from the masses, exposing class divides with witty flair. His 1965 short story collection, De Cirkels en andere fantastische verhalen (The Circles), showcases his inventive style, blending macabre humor with speculative twists.
His radio plays, particularly the Matt Meldon series, brought space exploration to life. Titles like Apollo XXI - Het Maanmysterie and De Gesluierde Planeet thrilled listeners with tales of lunar mysteries and Martian landings. Van Herck’s stories often carried a playful yet poignant edge, using science fiction to critique societal norms while keeping readers hooked with vivid imagination.
Other notable works include Caroline, oh! Caroline (1976), a lesser-known novel that still reflects his quirky style, and stories like Mijn Vriend DX5, which tackled human origins with a nod to 1960s scientific theories. His ability to weave humor, satire, and cosmic adventure made him a standout in Belgian literature.
Why Paul Van Herck Matters
Paul Van Herck’s impact lies in his fearless blending of satire and science fiction, challenging readers to rethink class, time, and humanity’s place in the universe. His work, though not as widely known today, influenced European science fiction by proving that speculative stories could be both entertaining and thought-provoking. His legacy lives on in the imaginations of readers and writers who cherish his unique voice.
- Born: May 19, 1938, Berchem, Belgium
- Died: June 19, 1989
- Key Works: Where Were You Last Pluterday?, De Cirkels, Matt Meldon radio series
- Awards: First Prize, European Science Fiction Convention, 1972
Ready to explore a universe of wit and wonder? Snag Where Were You Last Pluterday? and dive into Paul Van Herck’s wild, satirical sci-fi world!