In "The Red Book of Farewells," Saisio explores the complexity of childhood through Pirkko, a writer reflecting on her father's decline and her journey of self-discovery.
Pirkko's experiences in a Finnish village evoke bittersweet nostalgia, particularly her realization as a girl wanting to become a boy, revealing the depth of her childhood struggles.
Saisio articulates Pirkko's understanding of literature as a refuge: "Everything that exists in the world is waiting for me to capture it in books," showcasing her profound relationship with writing.
The clash between Pirkko's upbringing in a warm, theater-loving home and her cold communist father adds layers to her identity, shaping her unconventional coming-of-age story.
Collection
[
|
...
]