Who Wrote Amsterdam? Exploring the Authors, Artists, and Creators Behind the Name

When people search for "who wrote Amsterdam," they’re often referring to different cultural works—books, songs, films, and plays—all sharing the iconic name of the Dutch capital. Whether you’re a curious traveler, a literature lover, or just heard the title somewhere, this article will help you untangle the many versions of "Amsterdam" and who actually wrote them.

Ian McEwan: The Man Behind the Booker Prize-Winning Novel "Amsterdam"

The most well-known answer to the question "who wrote Amsterdam?" is British author Ian McEwan . He penned the novel Amsterdam , which was published in 1998 and won the prestigious Booker Prize that same year.

The novel is a dark and witty tale about friendship, ethics, and revenge, centering on two men—Clive, a composer, and Vernon, a newspaper editor—whose lives spiral into morally complex territory following the death of a mutual lover. Set partly in the city of Amsterdam, the novel uses the location as both a symbolic and literal endpoint.

• Fun Fact: McEwan wrote the novel in just four months.
• Literary Tip: If you’re in Amsterdam, consider reading the novel in Vondelpark or on a canal-side terrace for immersive effect.

“Amsterdam” by Coldplay: A Melancholy Ballad

If you're thinking music, you might be referring to the song “ Amsterdam ” by Coldplay . It’s the final track on their 2002 album A Rush of Blood to the Head . Written by Chris Martin and the rest of the band, the song is not literally about the city but uses it as a metaphor for emotional transition and acceptance.

Fans often interpret the track as a heartfelt cry for redemption and clarity, making it a soothing listen while watching Amsterdam’s gentle canal waters or wandering through Jordaan.

“Amsterdam” by Jacques Brel: A Poetic Classic

In the world of chanson and poetry, Belgian singer-songwriter Jacques Brel famously wrote and performed the haunting song “ Amsterdam ” in 1964. Although Brel was Belgian, his deep voice and dramatic performance immortalized the port city with vivid imagery of sailors, bars, and heartbreak.

The lyrics paint an unvarnished portrait of Amsterdam’s harbor life, far removed from the tourist postcard view. It has been covered by dozens of artists, including David Bowie, further cementing its legacy.

• Pro Tip: Visit the Maritime Museum (Scheepvaartmuseum) for a glimpse into the sailor history Brel captured in song.

Other Notable Works Titled “Amsterdam”

Because the name "Amsterdam" evokes such strong imagery and emotion, many artists and writers have used it as a title. Here are a few more notable entries:

• “Amsterdam” by Imagine Dragons (2012) : A modern rock track about chasing dreams and escape.
• “Amsterdam” (2022 film) : A historical mystery-comedy directed by David O. Russell, starring Christian Bale and Margot Robbie. The screenplay was written by David O. Russell himself.
• “Amsterdam” (TV series) : A recent Spanish-language drama involving a dog that connects several lives in Mexico City and Amsterdam.

Each of these projects uses "Amsterdam" not just as a place, but as a symbol—of mystery, escape, love, or tragedy.

Why Is Amsterdam So Popular in Art and Literature?

Amsterdam’s unique mix of liberal attitudes, picturesque beauty, historical depth, and edgy contrast has made it irresistible to writers and artists. Its canals, red-light district, museums, and multicultural population make it an ideal backdrop or metaphor for transformation, liberation, and sometimes moral ambiguity.

Whether it's Ian McEwan’s morally complex characters or Brel’s rugged sailors, the city serves as more than just a setting—it becomes a character in itself.

Travel Tip: Experience the “Amsterdam” They Wrote About

If you're planning to visit, here’s how to connect the works mentioned above with the city:

• Read McEwan’s novel while sitting at the Eye Film Museum café, overlooking the water.
• Listen to Brel’s “Amsterdam” on a boat tour to truly feel the rhythm of the harbor.
• Explore the city's indie record stores in De Pijp to discover music inspired by Amsterdam.

Summary: Who Wrote Amsterdam?

So, who wrote "Amsterdam"? The answer depends on what you're referring to:

• Ian McEwan wrote the acclaimed 1998 novel.
• Jacques Brel composed the poetic 1964 chanson.
• Coldplay (Chris Martin and band) wrote the emotional 2002 song.
• David O. Russell wrote and directed the 2022 film Amsterdam .

Each version captures a different facet of Amsterdam—literary, emotional, historical, or artistic. The city continues to be a muse for creators around the world, and it’s likely that even more “Amsterdams” will be written in years to come.

FAQ

• Is Ian McEwan’s “Amsterdam” based on real events?
  No, it's a fictional story, though the setting and themes reflect real moral dilemmas and social commentary.
• Can I find Jacques Brel’s “Amsterdam” with English subtitles?
  Yes! Many YouTube videos and lyric websites offer translations.
• Is there a connection between the Coldplay song and the city?
  Not directly—it's more metaphorical than geographic.