Book Review: A Cynical Narrator Scorns All, Especially Middle-Class Status Symbols

Marianna Kurtto's latest novel, "Öykkäri," presents a narrator whose pervasive cynicism targets all and sundry, with a particular disdain for middle-class status symbols. The book, published by Otava and spanning 352 pages, is Kurtto's latest literary offering following her previous novels and poetry collections. Kurtto has previously been nominated for the Nordic Council Literature Prize, indicating a significant presence in Finnish literature.

The reviewer acknowledges the potential for sharp wit to brighten a reader's day, likening it to the "reipas vittuilu" (brisk mockery) known in the Savonia region of Finland. However, despite this potential, the reviewer suggests that Kurtto, despite her qualifications as a poet, falls somewhat short in effectively wielding this critical voice within "Öykkäri."

The narrative's critical stance is exemplified by its focus on what the author perceives as pretentious displays of wealth and social standing. The reviewer notes the narrator's tendency to look down upon such symbols, creating a tone that is both critical and, at times, darkly humorous, though its overall effectiveness is questioned.

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Brash mockery can brighten the day.