Snow

by Ellen Mattson, Sarah Death (Translator)

From a promising young Swedish writer, a profoundly modern and universal novel set in 1718 in which the historical backdrop takes second place to the emotional and moral dilemma of a simple, loyal man who finds himself at the centre of a collapsing world.

200 pages, Paperback

First published August 24, 2001

About the author

Ellen Mattson lives in Ljungskile, in Sweden. She has been awarded with De nios vinterpris, Selma Lagerlöfs litteraturpris, and Gerard Bonniers Award.

Since 2019 she is a member of the Swedish Academy on chair 9.

Reviews

[David Butler · Rating 4 out of 5]

Snow is a haunting existential tale reminiscent perhaps of Hamsun's Mysteries. It has more than a nod, too, toward Dostoevsky, particularly in the seedy character of Wessman, who berates Jakob Torn in a smoky tavern. Set pieces such as the arrival of the frostbitten ragged army or the washing of the king's corpse are beautifully handled. The motive behind the protagonist's alienation is somewhat vague - in the hands of Dostoevsky or Hamsun, Torn himself might have some dilemma or compulsion driving his actions. Well worth a read.

[Harriet · Rating 2 out of 5]

miserable, a study in despair, wretchedness and bleak isolation set in 1700s Sweden - no surprises it was very cold and they all froze to death

[Marie-Louise Pade · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jeg læser den på dansk