An Introduction to Estonian Literature (II)

Interview with Hilary Bird by Doris Kareva

Choices of individual works were made within the historical frame. I kept some of Loone’s original choices. I used Estonian language anthologies of literature such as Paul-Eerik Rummo’s “Eesti Luule” and the Arbujad and Wellesto collections, as sources of “classic” texts.

The Soviet era “Estonian Literature” by Endel Nirk is a solid (if dated) English language historical commentary that helped a lot with context. The English-language “Estonian Literary Magazine” from Estonia and “World Literature Today,” the University of Oklahoma’s magazine of international literature and culture, were useful for informed opinion. Some selections are entirely my own.

The inclusion of anonymous folk oral works originates from my UK background – there is no distinction in comprehensive English-language historical anthologies between oral and written “literature”. Oral folklore, moreover, is still a very important element of Estonian culture. Jakob Hurt’s Helme speech is not strictly “literature” but it is so central to the important mainstream Estonian idea of being “great in spirit” that I felt it had to be included. No anthology can omit “The Werewolf.” I also selected works by poets who do not represent a “high” literary tradition – Johnny B and Merca, for example – but who were popular and articulated ideas that were widespread.

Q. Where did you pick up all the information about Tartu? It is quite amazing, actually. I understand that you have not been a professional guide, even if some lucky people have heard your stories. Is your “Tartu, Five Walks into History,” for example, used officially?

A. The information about Tartu came from many different sources! My interest started with stones. I was intrigued by the stones that lay scattered around the town that mark sites of historic interest. Some of these sites such as the Polish Jesuit Seminary and the Jakobi Gate, both in Jakobi St are hard to find. I received some strange looks when peering in the grass but the stones were signposts. It soon became clear to me that the site of Tartu had been occupied for a very long time.

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