Lize Spit

Why an honorary doctorate?

For her strong connection to Brussels, her literary power and her social engagement, Lize Spit is awarded an honorary doctorate. She is recognised for her exceptional contribution to Flemish literature, her impact on the contemporary novel and her ability to turn personal stories into narratives that resonate with universal and societal relevance.

Her work inspires readers both in Belgium and internationally, firmly anchoring Flemish literature within a broader cultural context.

"In my columns I often write about Kuregem, the neighbourhood where I live. I try to contribute in my own way to making the area a better place to live"

About her career

Lize Spit grew up in Viersel and studied screenwriting and creative writing. She made her literary debut with the novel The Melting (original title: Het smelt), which was published in 2016 and immediately received major literary acclaim and international translations. The novel was later adapted into a film, bringing her work to an even wider audience.

Following her debut, she published other novels such as Ik ben er niet (2018), in which she once again explores the darker sides of relationships and family dynamics, and Weet het maar (2021), a collection of short stories and essays that highlights her versatility as a writer. These works were also widely praised and confirmed her position as one of the strongest literary voices of her generation.

Alongside her novels, Spit publishes columns and essays and teaches as a guest lecturer in creative writing. Her work often explores themes such as identity, family ties and the complexity of human relationships. She combines deeply personal storytelling with socially relevant themes, creating novels that resonate both emotionally and intellectually.

Recognition

• De Bronzen Uil – Best Dutch-language debut for Het smelt (2016), jury and audience prize
• Boekhandelsprijs – Het smelt (2017), Dutch booksellers’ award
• Hebban Debuutprijs – Het smelt (2016), jury and audience prize
• Lucy B. en C.W. van der Hoogt-prijs – Het smelt (2018), literary prize in the Netherlands
• NRC Handelsblad Book of the Year – Het smelt (2016), jury selection
• Shortlisted for the Libris Literature Prize – Het smelt (2017) – Nomination in the Netherlands
• Shortlist Premio Strega Europeo –  Het smelt (2017–2018) - European Literature Prize
• Write Now! – Jury and audience prize in this writing competition early in her career (2013)