Korpelan Seppä

''Korpelan seppä'' by Heikki Meriläinen is a novel written in the early 20th century. The book centers on Maria, a character facing the harsh realities of rural life, particularly regarding her relationship with the cows on her small farm, especially one named Maatikki. The story delves into human emotions, vulnerability, and the connection between the protagonist and her animals, setting the stage for the unfolding drama of rural existence. At the start of the story, we find Maria tending to her cows, specifically Maatikki, a cow she feels a deep bond with. The narrative portrays a vivid scene of Maria preparing smoke to drive away pests bothering her cow, reflecting the challenges of her agricultural life. The tranquility quickly shatters when Maatikki is injured due to a confrontation with another cow, leading to a series of distressing events where Maria is helplessly confronted with the suffering of her beloved animal. As the opening unfolds, readers are drawn into Maria's emotional turmoil, setting a tone of sorrow and connection that suggests the struggles and themes of compassion that will permeate the narrative.