NordenBladet – Estonian President Alar Karis emphasized the importance of preserving one’s own language and culture in a speech marking Estonian Literature Day, which is celebrated annually on January 30th. He recognized literature as one of the core pillars of Estonian culture and a vital source of Estonian spirit and thought. The birth anniversary of Anton Hansen Tammsaare, a notable Estonian writer, is also celebrated on this day.
“January 30 marks a momentous day in Estonia’s cultural history – we celebrate Estonian literature, one of the core pillars of our culture, as a national holiday. On December 7, 2022, our parliament (Riigikogu) found literature to be important enough to be the wind under this popular initiative’s wings. And with good reason. Only through Estonian literature are the spirit and thought of Estonia born, developed and retained; the things around us named and what is happening inside us, our story, told. It takes place nowhere and speaks of no one else,” president said.
The Estonian Literature Day is celebrated as a flag day for the first time today – 30.01.2023. The day kicked off on Toompea Hill with a speech by President Alar Karis and the literature teacher of the year award.
Tall Hermann Tower , 2015 (Photo: Riigikogu / Paul Kuimet)
President Karis emphasized the universal appeal of specific, personal experiences, feelings and stories that are expressed through literature. He also stressed the importance of reading, especially in one’s own language, for personal growth, self-expression and understanding others.
In a world dominated by headlines and slogans, the President encouraged people to delve into literature to gain true knowledge and broaden their perspectives. Literature, especially Estonian literature, holds timeless truths that are often lost in the fast-paced world of social media and news portals.
The President concluded by urging the care of Estonian culture and its creators, reminding that language and culture are not a given for small nations.
Featured image: Estonian president Alar Karis (Riigikogu /Erik Peinar)