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1954
Zacharias Topelius
1954
Translated by Juhani Aho
A collection of narratives written in the late 19th century. The work comprises various enchanting tales, including themes of love, folklore, and social dynamics, centering around characters like Anna Sofia, who is engaged and eagerly prepares for her wedding, and the young nobleman Bernhard, who ventures into the realm of love and duty amidst impending conflict. The opening of this collection sets the tone with its richly described characters and their interactions, particularly focusing on Anna Sofia as she prepares for marriage while weaving together the nostalgia of her youth and the vibrant atmosphere of autumn. The narrative introduces the reader to a gathering where stories are to be shared, hinting at the interplay between tradition and contemporary issues. Here, we see Anna Sofia's playful interaction with her family and the warm but teasing advice from her grandmother, alongside the impending stories promised by the local 'välskäri' (a traditional storyteller or healer), revealing a subtle meld of personal relationships with broader societal concerns as they enjoy the evening in their peaceful corner of Finland.