Language/Finnish/Culture/Finnish-Contemporary-Literature
Introduction[edit | edit source]
Welcome to the lesson on Finnish contemporary literature! In this lesson, we will explore the fascinating world of modern Finnish literature and its prominent authors. Finnish literature has a rich history and continues to thrive in the contemporary era. By studying Finnish literature, you will not only gain a deeper understanding of the Finnish language but also gain insights into Finnish culture, society, and values. This lesson is designed for complete beginners and will take you on a journey through the works of some of Finland's most celebrated writers. So let's dive in and explore the world of Finnish contemporary literature!
The Rise of Finnish Contemporary Literature[edit | edit source]
Finnish contemporary literature refers to the literary works produced in Finland from the late 20th century to the present day. During this period, Finland experienced significant social and cultural changes, which influenced the themes and styles of Finnish literature. The rise of Finnish contemporary literature can be attributed to several factors, including the increasing globalization, the growth of the Finnish publishing industry, and the emergence of new voices and perspectives in Finnish society.
One of the defining characteristics of Finnish contemporary literature is its diversity. Finnish authors explore a wide range of themes, from personal struggles and identity to social issues and historical events. This diversity reflects the multicultural nature of Finnish society and the evolving perspectives of Finnish writers.
Prominent Authors in Finnish Contemporary Literature[edit | edit source]
In this section, we will introduce you to some of the most influential and acclaimed authors in Finnish contemporary literature. These authors have made significant contributions to Finnish literature and have gained international recognition for their works.
Sofi Oksanen[edit | edit source]
Sofi Oksanen is a Finnish-Estonian writer known for her powerful and thought-provoking novels. Her works often explore themes of identity, history, and the impact of political events on individuals. Oksanen's novel "Purge" (Puhdistus) garnered international acclaim and has been translated into numerous languages. It delves into the complex history of Estonia during the Soviet occupation and its lasting effects on the characters' lives.
Kjell Westö[edit | edit source]
Kjell Westö is a Swedish-speaking Finnish author whose works have earned him numerous awards and critical acclaim. His novels often revolve around Helsinki, exploring the city's history, architecture, and social changes. Westö's novel "The Wednesday Club" (Där vi en gång gått) is a captivating exploration of the lives of four young men in 1960s Helsinki, and the challenges they face amidst societal changes.
Riikka Pulkkinen[edit | edit source]
Riikka Pulkkinen is a Finnish author known for her lyrical and introspective novels. She explores themes of love, relationships, and personal growth in her works. Pulkkinen's novel "True" (Totuus) delves into the complexities of family dynamics and the search for personal truth.
Rosa Liksom[edit | edit source]
Rosa Liksom is a Finnish-Swedish author and artist whose works often challenge conventional storytelling. Her novels and short stories are characterized by sparse yet evocative language and unconventional narrative structures. Liksom's novel "Compartment No. 6" (Hytti nro 6) follows the journey of a young Finnish woman on a train ride from Moscow to Mongolia, exploring themes of loneliness, connection, and self-discovery.
Cultural Insights and Anecdotes[edit | edit source]
Finnish contemporary literature provides valuable insights into Finnish culture, society, and values. Many Finnish authors draw inspiration from Finnish nature, folklore, and history, infusing their works with a distinct sense of place. By immersing yourself in Finnish contemporary literature, you will gain a deeper understanding of Finnish cultural identity and the unique experiences of the Finnish people.
One interesting cultural phenomenon in Finnish literature is the tradition of "sisu." Sisu is a Finnish word that loosely translates to resilience, determination, and perseverance in the face of adversity. Many Finnish authors explore the concept of sisu in their works, portraying characters who overcome challenges and hardships with unwavering determination. This theme reflects the Finnish spirit and the resilience of the Finnish people.
Another cultural aspect often portrayed in Finnish contemporary literature is the importance of nature in Finnish society. Finland is known for its breathtaking landscapes, pristine forests, and countless lakes. Finnish authors often use nature as a backdrop for their stories, emphasizing the deep connection between the Finnish people and their natural surroundings. Through their vivid descriptions of the Finnish landscape, these authors invite readers to appreciate the beauty and serenity of Finland's natural environment.
Exercises[edit | edit source]
Now it's time to test your understanding of Finnish contemporary literature! Complete the following exercises to apply what you have learned.
Exercise 1: Match the Author and the Novel Match the Finnish author with their notable novel.
| Author | Novel |
|---|---|
| Sofi Oksanen | a. Purge |
| Kjell Westö | b. The Wednesday Club |
| Riikka Pulkkinen | c. True |
| Rosa Liksom | d. Compartment No. 6 |
Exercise 1 Solution: - Sofi Oksanen: a. Purge - Kjell Westö: b. The Wednesday Club - Riikka Pulkkinen: c. True - Rosa Liksom: d. Compartment No. 6
Exercise 2: Reflection on Sisu In your own words, describe what sisu means to you and provide an example of a character from a Finnish contemporary novel who embodies sisu.
Exercise 2 Solution: Sisu, to me, represents the inner strength and resilience that allows individuals to overcome challenges and persevere in the face of adversity. An example of a character who embodies sisu is the protagonist of Sofi Oksanen's novel "Purge," Aliide Truu. Despite enduring unimaginable hardships, Aliide displays unwavering determination and courage, demonstrating sisu throughout the story.
Conclusion[edit | edit source]
Congratulations on completing the lesson on Finnish contemporary literature! You have explored the rise of Finnish contemporary literature, learned about prominent authors and their works, and gained cultural insights into Finnish society. By studying Finnish literature, you have deepened your understanding of the Finnish language and gained a unique perspective on Finnish culture. Keep exploring the world of Finnish literature and continue to expand your knowledge of the Finnish language and culture. Happy reading!
Videos[edit | edit source]
MFA Friday Clip: Finnish Architecture – Review 2020: Helsinki ...[edit | edit source]
Sources[edit | edit source]
- 13 contemporary Finnish authors you should be reading ...
- An Introduction to Finnish Literature by Lola Rogers - Words Without ...
- Finnish contemporary literature: A wealth of voices - thisisFINLAND
Other Lessons[edit | edit source]
- Finnish Mythology and Legends
- Finnish Holidays and Festivals
- Finnish Society and Values
- Finland Timeline
- Finnish Film Industry
- Finnish Sauna
- Finnish Music and Arts
- Finnish Folk Music and Dance
- Finnish Cuisine
- Finnish Classic Literature