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๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ฎ Finland /Culture & Society

Culture: Flat-Roofed Concrete Cubes Do Not Elevate Anyone's Soul

From Helsingin Sanomat · () Finnish

Translated from Finnish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

Opinion Sources not specified Context piece
  • The author argues that artists, as sensitive and creative individuals, are crucial for showing humanity a path toward a richer life.
  • The piece laments the decline of beautiful architecture, contrasting ornate Jugendstil buildings with modern, soul-less concrete cubes.
  • It calls for a renewed appreciation of beauty, creativity, and joy, referencing Tommy Tabermann's poetry.

Some individuals possess a heightened sensitivity, creativity, and talent, enabling them to perceive the world more holistically. These are the artists, the individuals who guide humanity toward a more flourishing, vibrant, and spiritually enriched existence. The author questions why society would deny these bridge-builders of humanity and the future the opportunity to shine with their talents for the benefit of all.

Concepts such as goodness, beauty, creativity, sensitivity, and the richness of life have historically marked turning points in human history. People thrive when surrounded by beauty, a sentiment reflected even in architectural styles. The author fondly recalls walking through Helsinki's city center, admiring the ornate details and statues adorning old Jugendstil buildings, finding numerous examples of enduring beauty.

However, the author laments the disappearance of this aesthetic sensibility. Modern, cold, gray, flat-roofed concrete cubes fail to elevate the soul or create a symphony of beauty. The piece urges a shift in perspective, emphasizing that humans, as they were centuries ago when magnificent churches were built, still crave joy, dance, laughter, and holistic well-being. It calls for embracing a lifestyle that allows for this, leading to a better existence for everyone.

Concluding with a quote from Tommy Tabermann's poem, the author stresses the importance of pursuing aspirations without crushing a sensitive soul: "All doors must be pushed, all moons reached for. There is only one condition, a vital condition: A trembling soul must not be trampled."

DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Helsingin Sanomat in Finnish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.