During the Victorian era parlour games were extremely popular among the upper and middle classes. Being a fervent visitor of different Paris salons, Marcel Proust, the author of A la Recherche du Temps Perdu, has popularized such a game lending his name to it. It was believed that, by answering a list of some 40 questions, a person revealed their true nature. An original manuscript of his answers, of 1890, was auctioned in 2003 for the sum of 102.000 euros.

The ‘Proust Questionnaire’ inspired us to this short ‘5 minute version’ of the game. Some of our questions, btw, weren’t listed on the Proust one.

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Today’s episode: Patrick Vertenten, Belgian painter living in Sint-Niklaas (@patrickvertenten - patrickvertenten.weebly.com). We've got a special offer running, by the way, in our exclusive section. Have a look at 'The Consideration' in our 'Framed' category.

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When and where were you happiest?‍

At the birth of my children.‍

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Which painting has the power to make you envious? And why?‍

The Angel, Michaël Borremans. It is large, huge and monumental, tragic and yet full of love. The brushstrokes are transparent, with minimal paint but full of risk, heavenly light and perfectly brushed. A masterpiece! ‍

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If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?‍

Less rational more gut-feeling, and... some good dancing feet would be nice too.‍

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What is your idea of misery? ‍

Losing someone you love.

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You can choose one moment in history to be present: which do you choose? ‍

The assassination of Franz Ferdinand. But if I can't change history then I'd rather stay where I am...

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You can have a one night stand with a movie or novel character. Who would you choose?‍

The head nurse from 'one flew over the cuckoo's nest' (lol). I don't like one night stands, usually you’re drunk and in the morning everything looks less engaging. ‍

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What is your greatest regret?‍

That the days are too short.‍

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Saint Nicholas exists but only passes for adults. What would you ask for?‍

Time, lots of it.‍

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Best music concert you've ever attended? ‍

Almost every concert by Elvis Costello in Belgium the past 30 years.‍

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How would you like to die?

Painless surrounded by my loved ones.‍

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Which historical figure do you most identify with?‍

No one really, but I’m sure it’s a painter ;-).‍

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Favourite writer or book?

E.A. Poe.‍

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Favourite occupation? ‍

What do you think? :-)‍

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Favourite movie?

Incendies (Denis Villeneuve, 2010).‍

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You’re sentenced to the bullet. What’s your last meal?‍

Hmm, no appetite i guess, maybe a glass of South-African red wine.‍

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What’s your motto?‍

Never give up!