J. Bernlef was born in Sint Jacobiparochie, a small village in the northern part of the Netherlands. This area is known for its picturesque landscapes, featuring fields, canals, and traditional Dutch architecture. The village is part of the Friesland province, which has a rich cultural heritage and a unique language, Frisian. The Netherlands is famous for its windmills, tulip fields, and extensive cycling paths. It has a diverse population and a strong literary tradition, producing many notable authors and poets. The country is also known for its progressive social policies and vibrant cities like Amsterdam and Rotterdam.