Tie Selvä: Romaani Nykyajalta, I

''Tie selvä: Romaani nykyajalta, I'' by Arvi Järventaus is a novel written in the late 1920s. The story appears to center around Hesse, a young boy growing up in a working-class area, exploring his family life, community, and the social dynamics of his surroundings. Set against the backdrop of small-town life near the railway, the novel delves into the everyday experiences and interactions of its characters, vividly depicting the environment and social structure of the time. The opening of the novel introduces Hesse's family background, with his father as a railway blacksmith and his mother a former maid, as well as their modest life on the outskirts of town. Through Hesse's eyes, the reader is immersed in detailed scenes of the railway workshops, local homes, and the colorful people of his neighborhood—such as the vibrant Mankinen family, the stern but kindhearted Partasen relatives, and the various workers and children around the railway. The narrative is rich with lively dialogue, family anecdotes, and snapshots of working-class routines and festivities, highlighting both the warmth and hardships of communal life. Overall, the beginning of the book establishes a vivid, immersive setting and introduces a tapestry of distinct personalities, setting the stage for Hesse's coming-of-age journey within this tightly-knit community.