A raw and poetic reach into the world of myths and the mind of a dictator.
Author: Pirkko Saisio
Finnish original: Suliko
Publisher: Siltala, 2024
Genre: Literary fiction
Number of pages: 411 pp.
Reading material: Finnish original, English sample, English synopsis
On a cold New Year’s night, a downhearted autocrat is lost in his memories. He has ashes in his throat, he longs for the mountain sun, for his youth. His dreams are confused and distressing, his submissive subjects are insipid, everyday events seem strange. What’s going on? Only Suliko could calm the anxious old man. It is to them the mighty man turns in his thoughts and soliloquies.
The novel slips into flashbacks: the childhood and youth, the years of manhood and strength. Scenes and situations in which the determined protagonist has been faced with a choice. Choices that have led to new choices, but does even the strong-minded man ultimately have free will?
The world of Suliko is raw and poetic. The novel reaches into the world of myths and asks in what situations human choices lead to opposite outcomes from the original ethos and purpose. How does an idealist fighting for justice grow into a dictator? Is love an illusion? And again: who is Suliko?
I have a taste of ashes in my mouth, Suliko.
I have nothing I am not prepared to give up.
Except you.
About the author:
Pirkko Saisio