Henrik Stangerup is one of the most widely read and most versatile Danish authors of his generation. His body of work ranges from satirical contemporary realism and autobiographical essays to biographical novels about controversial or forgotten figures in Danish history. With his novels, films, and essays, Stangerup passionately championed attitudes and points of view that are often contrary to those prevailing in Danish cultural life. He asserted the right of the artist "ikke at høre til" (not to belong)--as in the title of one of his essay collections--and to write without being influenced by whatever opinions are fashionable at the moment. His work has also drawn attention outside of Denmark, and several of his novels have been translated into many languages.

Henrik Stangerup was born in Copenhagen on 1 September 1937 and grew up in a milieu that was artistically and intellectually stimulating. He was the son...