Reading Notes: Kalevala Reading A

• Joukahainen and Väinämöinen  
• This story is different than any story I recall reading this semester. Its structure of paragraphs and the writing style of the author, both are unique
• I had a hard time understanding exactly what is going on in this story. I listened to the audio version for this whole story, and the names confused me a little bit just because it took me hearing them a few times to distinguish who they are in my mind. 
• But so far it sounds like there is an old guy who sings and two young characters who sing and they both seem to be competitive with the older man. 
• I predict next they will compete in some way or fight to see who the best singer is perhaps? 
• There are a lot of details in this story and plenty of them do not seem to have much reason or add much to the story. It's hard to even imagine the imagery to me as I'm not exactly sure of the setting as the story goes along. 
• Joukahainen and Väinämöinen (cont.) 
  
• I like that Joukahainen wants to learn from Väinämöinen
• I like the idea that old can learn from young, and that young want to share wisdom between the two
• I thought there was going to be conflict, but it seems like there won't be yet. 
• I like the section where Joukahainen talks about nature
• Both things that Joukahainen says are riddles or tales and it is an interesting strategy to give a message 
• Kind of confusing what he is saying. Even Väinämöinen says it is "nonsense." 
• Joukahainen talks more in riddles or maybe even made-up stories, and Väinämöinen talks with a little bit more clarity. However, their talking does not appear to work, as the youthful guy seeks to fight against the elder 
• I like this story a little bit better, but this style is not my favorite. I prefer understanding the character's reasoning more, which can be accomplished by a different writing style. However, I do like reading something different. 
• I listened to this in audio form as well
• Joukahainen and Väinämöinen (cont. again)
  
• I like the first two paragraphs. I understand that they are about to fight, and I like the adjectives used in these paragraphs. Specifically, the ones that describe the characters feelings
• It is cool to imagine an elder singing and causing the things it says 
• Joukahainen realizes his defeat and he also begins to sink in quicksand. 
• I wonder if Väinämöinen just wants his respect or something. He does not seem to be interested in anything material. I like the twist in this story from the singing to the elder beating the young guy easily 
• Joukahainen and Väinämöinen (end) 
  
• The descriptive words in this story are great. They really add a lot of depth to each character 
• I like the dynamic between the family. Joukahainen and Aino weep at the thought of her going to Väinämöinen but their mother actually likes it
• Now Aino goes to Väinämöinen. I like that these stories are just one story broken up. 

Mountains from which They Sang