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<div class="pg_page_title">[[Language/Finnish|Finnish]]  → [[Language/Finnish/Culture|Culture]] → [[Language/Finnish/Grammar/0-to-A1-Course|0 to A1 Course]] → Finnish Literature and Music → Finnish Literature</div>


<div class="pg_page_title">[[Language/Finnish|Finnish]]  → [[Language/Finnish/Culture|Culture]] → [[Language/Finnish/Grammar/0-to-A1-Course|0 to A1 Course]] → Finnish Literature and Music → Finnish Literature</div>
__TOC__
 
== Introduction ==
 
In this lesson, we will delve into the world of Finnish literature, exploring the works of famous authors and poets. Finnish literature has a rich history and plays a significant role in the country's cultural identity. By studying Finnish literature, you will not only improve your language skills but also gain insight into the Finnish mindset and cultural values. This lesson will provide an overview of the major literary figures, genres, and works in Finnish literature, allowing you to appreciate the depth and beauty of the written word in Finnish.
 
== Finnish Literature ==
 
Finnish literature encompasses a wide range of genres, from epic poetry to modern novels. It reflects the unique cultural heritage and history of Finland, with themes often centering around nature, folklore, and the Finnish national identity. Let's explore some of the key aspects of Finnish literature.
 
=== The Kalevala ===
 
The Kalevala is the national epic of Finland and one of the most significant works in Finnish literature. It was compiled and edited by Elias Lönnrot in the 19th century, based on the oral folklore and mythology of the Finnish and Karelian people. The Kalevala consists of 22,795 verses divided into fifty songs, which tell the story of the creation of the world, the adventures of mythical heroes, and the power of poetry and song. It has had a profound influence on Finnish culture, inspiring generations of artists, composers, and writers.
 
Here is an excerpt from the Kalevala:
 
{| class="wikitable"
! Finnish !! Pronunciation !! English
|-
| "Mieleni minun tekevi, aivoni ajattelevi" || "Mee-leh-nee mee-nun teh-keh-vee, ai-vo-nee ai-ya-te-le-vee" || "My mind desires, my thoughts are pondering"
|-
| "Lähteäni laulamahan, saa'ani sanelemahan" || "Lah-teh-ah-nee lau-la-ma-hahn, saa-a-nee sa-ne-le-ma-hahn" || "To depart singing, to begin reciting"
|-
| "Sukuvirttä suoltamahan, lajivirttä laulamahan" || "Soo-koo-veert-ta soo-ol-ta-ma-hahn, la-ji-veert-ta lau-la-ma-hahn" || "To pour forth ancestral songs, to sing down generations"
|}
 
=== Aleksis Kivi ===
 
Aleksis Kivi is considered the father of modern Finnish literature. He wrote the first significant novel in Finnish, "Seven Brothers" ("Seitsemän veljestä"), published in 1870. The novel tells the story of seven brothers and their adventures in the Finnish countryside, exploring themes of freedom, individuality, and the clash between tradition and modernity. Kivi's work marked a turning point in Finnish literature, as it showcased the potential of the Finnish language as a literary medium.


Welcome to this lesson on Finnish literature! As a language teacher with 20 years of experience, I've seen how understanding a culture's literature can make a huge impact on learning a language. In this lesson, we will explore famous authors, poets, and works of literature in Finland. Not only will this give you interesting topic for conversations with Finns, but it will also help you have a deeper understanding of the country's history and culture. So let's dive in!
=== Väinö Linna ===


__TOC__
Väinö Linna is one of Finland's most renowned authors, known for his novel "The Unknown Soldier" ("Tuntematon sotilas"). Published in 1954, the novel depicts the experiences of Finnish soldiers during World War II. It offers a realistic and gritty portrayal of war, highlighting the struggles, camaraderie, and sacrifices of the soldiers. "The Unknown Soldier" is considered a classic of Finnish literature and has been adapted into several films and plays.


=== Tove Jansson ===


<span link>Once you've mastered this lesson, take a look at these related pages: [[Language/Finnish/Culture/Finnish-Film-Industry|Finnish Film Industry]] & [[Language/Finnish/Culture/Finnish-Sauna|Finnish Sauna]].</span>
Tove Jansson is best known for her beloved Moomin series, which has captivated readers of all ages since its first publication in the 1940s. The Moomins are whimsical and endearing creatures who live in Moominvalley, embarking on various adventures and life lessons. Jansson's stories are cherished for their imaginative world-building, gentle humor, and insightful observations about human nature. The Moomins have become an integral part of Finnish popular culture and have been adapted into TV shows, films, and even a theme park.
== A Brief Overview of Finnish Literature ==


Finnish literature has a rich history with many talented authors and poets. From the time when the "Kalevala", Finland's national epic, was compiled in the 19th century, Finnish literature has continued to develop and flourish. While it may not be as well-known as other European literatures, there are many treasures to discover in Finnish books and poems. Here, we will present an introduction to several iconic Finnish writers and their works. Hopefully, this will inspire you to read more of their works in Finnish as you progress in your language studies.
== Finnish Poetry ==


=== The Kalevala and its Influence on Finnish Literature ===
Finnish poetry holds a special place in the hearts of the Finnish people. It often draws inspiration from nature, folklore, and the Finnish language itself. Here are some notable Finnish poets and their works:


The "Kalevala" is an epic poem written by Elias Lönnrot in 1835, and it has played a significant role in shaping both the Finnish language and its literature. Lönnrot compiled the "Kalevala" by collecting and combining folk songs and oral poetry from Karelia, a region that now lies in both Finland and Russia. This work is considered highly influential because it not only preserved and celebrated Finnish folklore, but also helped to create a sense of national identity during Finland's struggle for independence from Russia.
=== Eino Leino ===


The Kalevala has also had an enduring impact on Finnish literature, sparking a wave of interest in the country's folklore and linguistic traditions. Many Finnish writers and poets have been inspired by the themes and characters found in the Kalevala, such as the tragic hero Kullervo and the wise shaman Väinämöinen.
Eino Leino is regarded as one of Finland's greatest poets. His poetry combines romanticism and symbolism, exploring themes of love, nature, and the Finnish national identity. Leino's works, such as "Helkavirsiä" and "Hymyilevä Apollo," have become iconic in Finnish literature, showcasing his lyrical and evocative style.


=== Aleksis Kivi: The Father of Finnish Prose Literature ===
=== Edith Södergran ===


When discussing Finnish literature, one cannot ignore Aleksis Kivi (1834-1872), who is considered the father of Finnish prose literature. Although Kivi wrote in both Finnish and Swedish, his most famous and influential work is "Seven Brothers" (Finnish: Seitsemän veljestä), published in 1870. This novel follows the lives of seven brothers who struggle with adapting to societal expectations and eventually choose to live independently in the wilderness.
Edith Södergran is known for her groundbreaking modernist poetry. Her works often explore existential themes and the inner world of emotions. Södergran's poems, such as "Septemberlyran" and "Rosenaltaret," challenge traditional poetic forms and offer a fresh perspective on life and love.


"Seven Brothers" is considered an important work for several reasons. Firstly, it is the first significant novel written in the Finnish language, representing a major step in the development of Finnish literature. Secondly, the novel promotes the idea of self-sufficiency and individualism, which has come to be seen as a reflection of the Finnish national character. Even today, "Seven Brothers" remains one of the most well-known and loved works of Finnish literature.
=== Paavo Haavikko ===


== Finnish Poetry: Eino Leino and Edith Södergran ==
Paavo Haavikko is considered one of Finland's most influential poets of the 20th century. His poetry is characterized by its intellectual depth, rich imagery, and philosophical reflections. Haavikko's collections, such as "Tiet etäisyyksiin" and "Tämä matka," delve into themes of time, mortality, and the human condition.


In addition to prose, Finland has a strong tradition of poetry, with several acclaimed poets who have had a lasting impact on Finnish literature. Let's discuss two of the most famous ones: Eino Leino and Edith Södergran.
== Cultural Significance ==


=== Eino Leino: A Poet of the Finnish People ===
Finnish literature and poetry hold immense cultural significance in Finland. They are seen as a means of preserving and celebrating Finnish language, history, and identity. Finnish authors and poets have contributed to shaping the collective consciousness of the Finnish people, providing a platform to explore and express their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Literature festivals, book fairs, and literary awards are important events in Finland, showcasing the vibrant literary scene and fostering a love for reading and storytelling.


Eino Leino (1878-1926) is perhaps the most well-known and beloved Finnish poet. His works, which include both poetry and plays, are deeply connected to Finnish folklore, nature, and national identity. Leino's poems often deal with the themes of love, beauty, and the human relationship with nature. Some of his most well-known collections include "Helkavirsiä" (1903) and "Hiihtäjän virsiä" (1905).
== Exercises ==


Leino's influence on Finnish poetry and culture is immense, and his poems continue to be cherished by the Finnish people. His works have been widely translated and adapted, and you can even find some of his most famous poems set to music by Finnish composers.
1. Match the following Finnish authors with their notable works:
a) Aleksis Kivi
b) Väinö Linna
c) Tove Jansson


=== Edith Södergran: The Pioneer of Finnish Modernist Poetry ===
i) "The Unknown Soldier"
ii) "Seven Brothers"
iii) Moomin series


Edith Södergran (1892-1923) was a Swedish-speaking Finnish poet who is considered one of the pioneers of modernist poetry in Finland. Born into a bilingual family, she wrote her poems primarily in Swedish but was also fluent in Finnish. She started publishing in 1916 and, although she was initially criticized for her unconventional style, her work has gained more and more recognition over time.
Solution:
a) ii) "Seven Brothers"
b) i) "The Unknown Soldier"
c) iii) Moomin series


Södergran's poems are characterized by their bold, vivid imagery and experimental language, reflecting her deep connection to nature, spirituality, and human emotion. Her most famous works include the collections "Dikter" (1916), "Rosenaltaret" (1919), and "Den bebodda ön" (1923). Despite her short career, Södergran has had a significant impact on Finnish poetry, and her work continues to be admired and studied for its innovative, groundbreaking approach.
2. Fill in the blanks with the appropriate Finnish words from the table below:


== Contemporary Finnish Literature ==
{| class="wikitable"
! Finnish !! Pronunciation !! English
|-
| kirjailija || "keer-yai-li-ya" || author
|-
| runoilija || "roo-noi-li-ya" || poet
|-
| romaani || "ro-mah-nee" || novel
|-
| runo || "roo-no" || poem
|}


Finnish literature has continued to evolve and adapt to the changing times, with many contemporary Finnish writers exploring modern themes and experimenting with new forms of storytelling. Some authors to look out for include:
a) Suomalainen ___________ oli kuuluisa runoilija.
b) Hän kirjoitti monia ___________.
c) Olen lukenut hänen uusimman ___________.


* Sofi Oksanen - Known for her engrossing novels which reflect on Finland's historical and social issues. Some of her most famous works include "Purge" (Finnish: Puhdistus) and "When the Doves Disappeared" (Finnish: Kun kyyhkyset katosivat).
Solution:
* Tove Jansson - Although she was a Swedish-speaking Finn, her Moomin books have become beloved children's literature classics in Finland and beyond. They have been translated into Finnish and numerous other languages.
a) Suomalainen runoilija oli kuuluisa runoilija.
* Arto Paasilinna - A celebrated Finnish author known for his humorous and sometimes absurd novels, such as "The Year of the Hare" (Finnish: Jäniksen vuosi) and "The Forest of Hanged Foxes" (Finnish: Hirtettyjen kettujen metsä).
b) Hän kirjoitti monia romaaneja.
c) Olen lukenut hänen uusimman runonsa.


== Conclusion ==
== Conclusion ==


I hope this lesson has given you a taste of the rich and diverse world of Finnish literature. As you continue your journey in learning Finnish, consider diving into some of these works or seeking out more contemporary Finnish novels and poetry - remember, experiencing a culture through its literature is a great way to improve your language skills and deepen your understanding of Finnish culture.
Finnish literature and poetry offer a window into the rich cultural heritage and artistic expression of Finland. By exploring the works of Finnish authors and poets, you will not only deepen your understanding of the Finnish language but also gain insights into the Finnish mindset, values, and history. Whether it's the epic tales of the Kalevala, the modern novels of Väinö Linna, or the whimsical world of the Moomins, Finnish literature has something to offer for everyone. So grab a book, immerse yourself in the world of Finnish literature, and let the words transport you to the beauty of the Finnish language and imagination.


<span link>Impressive work on finishing this lesson! Explore these additional pages to enhance your understanding: [[Language/Finnish/Culture/Finnish-Mythology-and-Legends|Finnish Mythology and Legends]] & [[Language/Finnish/Culture/Finnish-Folk-Music-and-Dance|Finnish Folk Music and Dance]].</span>
{{#seo:
{{#seo:
|title=Finnish Culture → Finnish Literature and Music → Finnish Literature
|title=Finnish Culture → Finnish Literature and Music → Finnish Literature
|keywords=finnish literature, kalevala, aleksis kivi, eino leino, edith sodergran, finnish poetry, finnish authors, finnish language learning
|keywords=Finnish literature, Finnish poetry, Finnish authors, Finnish poets, Kalevala, Aleksis Kivi, Seven Brothers, Väinö Linna, The Unknown Soldier, Tove Jansson, Moomin series, Eino Leino, Edith Södergran, Paavo Haavikko, cultural significance of Finnish literature
|description=Discover Finnish literature, including famous authors, poets, and works of literature. In this lesson, you will learn about Finnish writers, their works, and their impact on Finnish culture.
|description=Discover Finnish literature, including famous authors, poets, and works of literature. Explore the cultural significance of Finnish literature and its impact on Finnish identity. Improve your language skills while exploring the beauty of the written word in Finnish.
}}
}}


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==Videos==
==Videos==
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===Finnish Kalevala - The Most Significant Piece of Finnish Literature ...===
===Finnish Kalevala - The Most Significant Piece of Finnish Literature ...===
<youtube>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qNwu8XM5z2M</youtube>
<youtube>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qNwu8XM5z2M</youtube>
==Sources==
* [https://www.britannica.com/art/Finnish-literature Finnish literature | Britannica]
* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Finnish_literature Finnish literature - Wikipedia]
* [https://finland.fi/arts-culture/top-10-your-favourite-finnish-books/ Top 10: Your favourite Finnish books - thisisFINLAND]


==Other Lessons==
==Other Lessons==
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* [[Language/Finnish/Culture/Finnish-Holidays-and-Festivals|Finnish Holidays and Festivals]]
* [[Language/Finnish/Culture/Finnish-Holidays-and-Festivals|Finnish Holidays and Festivals]]


<span class='maj'></span>
 
==Sources==
* [https://www.britannica.com/art/Finnish-literature Finnish literature | Britannica]
* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Finnish_literature Finnish literature - Wikipedia]
* [https://finland.fi/arts-culture/top-10-your-favourite-finnish-books/ Top 10: Your favourite Finnish books - thisisFINLAND]


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{{Finnish-Page-Bottom}}
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Latest revision as of 21:20, 18 June 2023

◀️ Relationships — Previous Lesson Next Lesson — Finnish Music ▶️

Finnish-Language-PolyglotClub.png
Finnish → Culture → 0 to A1 Course → Finnish Literature and Music → Finnish Literature

Introduction[edit | edit source]

In this lesson, we will delve into the world of Finnish literature, exploring the works of famous authors and poets. Finnish literature has a rich history and plays a significant role in the country's cultural identity. By studying Finnish literature, you will not only improve your language skills but also gain insight into the Finnish mindset and cultural values. This lesson will provide an overview of the major literary figures, genres, and works in Finnish literature, allowing you to appreciate the depth and beauty of the written word in Finnish.

Finnish Literature[edit | edit source]

Finnish literature encompasses a wide range of genres, from epic poetry to modern novels. It reflects the unique cultural heritage and history of Finland, with themes often centering around nature, folklore, and the Finnish national identity. Let's explore some of the key aspects of Finnish literature.

The Kalevala[edit | edit source]

The Kalevala is the national epic of Finland and one of the most significant works in Finnish literature. It was compiled and edited by Elias Lönnrot in the 19th century, based on the oral folklore and mythology of the Finnish and Karelian people. The Kalevala consists of 22,795 verses divided into fifty songs, which tell the story of the creation of the world, the adventures of mythical heroes, and the power of poetry and song. It has had a profound influence on Finnish culture, inspiring generations of artists, composers, and writers.

Here is an excerpt from the Kalevala:

Finnish Pronunciation English
"Mieleni minun tekevi, aivoni ajattelevi" "Mee-leh-nee mee-nun teh-keh-vee, ai-vo-nee ai-ya-te-le-vee" "My mind desires, my thoughts are pondering"
"Lähteäni laulamahan, saa'ani sanelemahan" "Lah-teh-ah-nee lau-la-ma-hahn, saa-a-nee sa-ne-le-ma-hahn" "To depart singing, to begin reciting"
"Sukuvirttä suoltamahan, lajivirttä laulamahan" "Soo-koo-veert-ta soo-ol-ta-ma-hahn, la-ji-veert-ta lau-la-ma-hahn" "To pour forth ancestral songs, to sing down generations"

Aleksis Kivi[edit | edit source]

Aleksis Kivi is considered the father of modern Finnish literature. He wrote the first significant novel in Finnish, "Seven Brothers" ("Seitsemän veljestä"), published in 1870. The novel tells the story of seven brothers and their adventures in the Finnish countryside, exploring themes of freedom, individuality, and the clash between tradition and modernity. Kivi's work marked a turning point in Finnish literature, as it showcased the potential of the Finnish language as a literary medium.

Väinö Linna[edit | edit source]

Väinö Linna is one of Finland's most renowned authors, known for his novel "The Unknown Soldier" ("Tuntematon sotilas"). Published in 1954, the novel depicts the experiences of Finnish soldiers during World War II. It offers a realistic and gritty portrayal of war, highlighting the struggles, camaraderie, and sacrifices of the soldiers. "The Unknown Soldier" is considered a classic of Finnish literature and has been adapted into several films and plays.

Tove Jansson[edit | edit source]

Tove Jansson is best known for her beloved Moomin series, which has captivated readers of all ages since its first publication in the 1940s. The Moomins are whimsical and endearing creatures who live in Moominvalley, embarking on various adventures and life lessons. Jansson's stories are cherished for their imaginative world-building, gentle humor, and insightful observations about human nature. The Moomins have become an integral part of Finnish popular culture and have been adapted into TV shows, films, and even a theme park.

Finnish Poetry[edit | edit source]

Finnish poetry holds a special place in the hearts of the Finnish people. It often draws inspiration from nature, folklore, and the Finnish language itself. Here are some notable Finnish poets and their works:

Eino Leino[edit | edit source]

Eino Leino is regarded as one of Finland's greatest poets. His poetry combines romanticism and symbolism, exploring themes of love, nature, and the Finnish national identity. Leino's works, such as "Helkavirsiä" and "Hymyilevä Apollo," have become iconic in Finnish literature, showcasing his lyrical and evocative style.

Edith Södergran[edit | edit source]

Edith Södergran is known for her groundbreaking modernist poetry. Her works often explore existential themes and the inner world of emotions. Södergran's poems, such as "Septemberlyran" and "Rosenaltaret," challenge traditional poetic forms and offer a fresh perspective on life and love.

Paavo Haavikko[edit | edit source]

Paavo Haavikko is considered one of Finland's most influential poets of the 20th century. His poetry is characterized by its intellectual depth, rich imagery, and philosophical reflections. Haavikko's collections, such as "Tiet etäisyyksiin" and "Tämä matka," delve into themes of time, mortality, and the human condition.

Cultural Significance[edit | edit source]

Finnish literature and poetry hold immense cultural significance in Finland. They are seen as a means of preserving and celebrating Finnish language, history, and identity. Finnish authors and poets have contributed to shaping the collective consciousness of the Finnish people, providing a platform to explore and express their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Literature festivals, book fairs, and literary awards are important events in Finland, showcasing the vibrant literary scene and fostering a love for reading and storytelling.

Exercises[edit | edit source]

1. Match the following Finnish authors with their notable works: a) Aleksis Kivi b) Väinö Linna c) Tove Jansson

i) "The Unknown Soldier" ii) "Seven Brothers" iii) Moomin series

Solution: a) ii) "Seven Brothers" b) i) "The Unknown Soldier" c) iii) Moomin series

2. Fill in the blanks with the appropriate Finnish words from the table below:

Finnish Pronunciation English
kirjailija "keer-yai-li-ya" author
runoilija "roo-noi-li-ya" poet
romaani "ro-mah-nee" novel
runo "roo-no" poem

a) Suomalainen ___________ oli kuuluisa runoilija. b) Hän kirjoitti monia ___________. c) Olen lukenut hänen uusimman ___________.

Solution: a) Suomalainen runoilija oli kuuluisa runoilija. b) Hän kirjoitti monia romaaneja. c) Olen lukenut hänen uusimman runonsa.

Conclusion[edit | edit source]

Finnish literature and poetry offer a window into the rich cultural heritage and artistic expression of Finland. By exploring the works of Finnish authors and poets, you will not only deepen your understanding of the Finnish language but also gain insights into the Finnish mindset, values, and history. Whether it's the epic tales of the Kalevala, the modern novels of Väinö Linna, or the whimsical world of the Moomins, Finnish literature has something to offer for everyone. So grab a book, immerse yourself in the world of Finnish literature, and let the words transport you to the beauty of the Finnish language and imagination.

Table of Contents - Finnish Course - 0 to A1[edit source]


Introduction to Finnish


Greetings and Introductions


Nouns and Adjectives


Numbers and Time


Verbs and Tenses


Daily Activities


Questions and Negation


Food and Dining


Prepositions and Postpositions


Travel and Transportation


Finnish Culture and Traditions


Weather and Seasons


Conjunctions and Subordinate Clauses


Family and Relationships


Finnish Literature and Music

Videos[edit | edit source]

Celebrating 100 Years of Finnish Independence: The History ...[edit | edit source]

Best Finnish Language Learning Books and Courses - YouTube[edit | edit source]

Finnish Kalevala - The Most Significant Piece of Finnish Literature ...[edit | edit source]


Sources[edit | edit source]


Other Lessons[edit | edit source]



◀️ Relationships — Previous Lesson Next Lesson — Finnish Music ▶️

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