Seita Parkkola

I write for children and young people, and my most recent publications are Viima (literally frenzy, rage, fever) (WSOY, 2006) ja Usva (Haze) (WSOY, 2009). The publishing rights for my works have been sold to eight countries so far, and in 2011 translations will be published in Danish, Italian, and Swedish. Viima was published in the USA in 2010, as School Possibilities. I addition to writing I do photography and various other jobs in the field of literature.

I divide my time between Turku and Helsinki, and my work as a writer also has had to adapt to the demands of a continually mobile existence. The chance to work in the stable and tranquil environment of Saari Residence has therefore been a luxury for me.

During my stay I worked on a children’s novel entitled Karikko (On the Rocks). It’s a story of siblings and their unhappy life, their flight from home and what becomes of them. They go into hiding while on holiday at the seaside, and spend their time trying to remain out of sight. However, they can’t live along the shore forever.

The maritime setting has led me to think so much about the sea that I found myself drawn to it – here I am at the Saari Residence. The countryside here is a combination of actual, mythical and dream-like landscapes, and has been a rich source of inspiration for my writing. The ocean carries both general and personal meanings, and the shoreline is the place where many beginnings and endings have taken place.

When I take a break from my writing and walk along the terrace, it strikes me how November evenings at Saari are far less dark than one would expect. Even when the moonlight fades, it’s still reflected across the countryside. In these open, tranquil spaces, by the water and close to the wilderness, the winter greyness feels far different than it does in urban settings, surrounded by concrete. This makes a difference also to one’s writing, which is after all a “journey into the light” of sorts. Work here has gone well, and I am looking forward to the remainder of my stay.