
A weary laborer named Janne Andersson spends a rain‑soaked morning waiting for the birth of his child, his mind clouded by bitterness and resentment. He reflects on a marriage forged out of necessity, a life of hard work for a demanding landowner, and the looming change that a newborn will bring to his routine. The story paints a vivid picture of a modest farmhouse, the relentless weather, and the strained relationships that shape Janne’s world.
As the laboring hours drag on, Janne’s internal monologue reveals his fear of losing the quiet nights he has come to value and his dread of the responsibilities a child will demand. Yet, amid the gloom, the subtle sounds of life—a midwife’s preparations, the crackle of a fire—hint at a fragile hope that may yet alter his hardened outlook. This early act sets the stage for a tale of stubborn pride, familial duty, and the quiet struggles of rural existence.
Language
fi
Duration
~5 hours (345K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Original publisher
Porvoo: WSOY, 1914.
Credits
Juhani Kärkkäinen and Tapio Riikonen
Release date
2024-02-06
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1858–1940
A pioneer of Swedish literature, this Nobel Prize winner wrote stories that blend folklore, moral depth, and a strong sense of place. She is still especially loved for The Wonderful Adventures of Nils, a classic that carries readers across Sweden through the eyes of a child and a wild goose.
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