Niels Krause-Kjær: Ude for uden

Author Niels Krause-Kjær invites you on a personal journey through his prize-winning novel Ude for uden, a narrative about Denmark at a pivotal turning point. He shares reflections on cultural heritage, identity, and the societal transformations that in just two generations shifted the country from rural values to urban aspirations.

The novel is based on a historical travel diary written by Krause-Kjær's father and his folk high school companions over half a century – a discovery the author made in the Danish National Archives. Through the story of young farmer Erik, we follow both a personal life narrative and Denmark's upheaval after World War II. Erik's son Svend later lives a completely different life as a Faroese politician, and the confrontation between the two men's worlds becomes both painful and transformative.

The lecture is a vivid blend of personal memories, historical perspectives, and literary storytelling – a reflection on what Denmark has gained and lost in its encounter with modernity. Krause-Kjær was awarded De Gyldne Laurbær 2025, the booksellers' literary prize, for this work.

Admission: 200 kr