jbingb 's review for:

The People of Hemsö: A Story from the Islands by August Strindberg

4.0

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24: The People of Hemso: A Story from the Islands by August Strindberg...pre-Sweden #5. This was reminiscent for me of John Greenleaf Whittier's "Snowbound: A Winter Idyll" in its description of this small group of people isolated from much else and from other people; in this story it's due to geography and living in the Swedish islands, while in Whittier's "Snowbound" it's primarily the weather. Carlsson makes for an interesting character as he arrives to the Widow Flod's farm, relatively unknown, hired to run things for her and her children and a couple of hired hands. Some other characterization is a little muddier; for instance, the Widow Flod, with a marriage-age son and two daughters who function more as farm/house help, rather independently, is presented as being closer to old age than more childbearing, initially. But that changes. Makes things a little confusing. Probably the most "amusing" character is the local minister, who frequently drinks more than he should, at one point forgetting completely that the event he's to bless is a wedding, starting to comment on Christmas, and understanding he deserved being laughed at in response, so stopped. The fact that his wife keeps all liquor locked, with only herself possessing a key makes perfect sense. Overall, though, this was an engaging visit with an isolated family who shared some Swedish traditions, such as fish of different kinds being consumed at all meals, and schnapps doing some of their soul-warming. I enjoyed it!