In 1905, Belgium became the first European country to ban the production and sale of absinthe, a highly alcoholic beverage that had gained notoriety for its association with bohemian culture and perceived health risks. This prohibition was part of a broader temperance movement sweeping across Europe, reflecting changing attitudes towards alcohol consumption. The ban on absinthe not only impacted the beverage industry but also symbolized the cultural and social shifts occurring in early 20th-century Europe. The legacy of absinthe continues to influence discussions about alcohol regulation and cultural identity.

Belgium's ban on absinthe production and sale in 1905 contributed to narratives of cultural suppression in early 20th-century poetry. Poets began to reflect on themes of artistic freedom and the relationship between society and creativity, shaping the literary discourse of the era.