Afternoon Date: Interested in Helsinki’s past? – Selections from non-fiction works about the history of Helsinki
At the Helsinki City Museum, located at Aleksanterinkatu 16, we meet for Afternoon Dates on Wednesday afternoons. At the Afternoon Dates in March, we will discuss literature related to Helsinki.
Are you retired, a student, a shift worker or otherwise free in the afternoons? At the Afternoon Dates, you can come to the City Museum to enjoy yourself, relax and chat in an inspiring environment, where you can also participate in workshops, nostalgic moments and info sessions. The theme of the dates changes every month, and each time is different. Admission to the Afternoon Dates, like the museum in general, is free, and you do not have to register in advance. Anyone who has time in the afternoons is welcome to attend.
Afternoon Dates in March: Helsinki in literature
At the Afternoon Dates in March, we will discuss Helsinki-themed literature, including well-loved classics and lesser-known novels and non-fiction works. All interested are welcome to come tell about their own favourite works and hear others’ reading experiences. Researcher Eva Packalén and Museum Educator Anna Finnilä will give a short introduction and lead the discussion (in Finnish).
Wed. 1 March 2–3:30 p.m. Afternoon Date: From the Twist-Bun Girl to the Orange Seed – examples of older Helsinki-themed fiction
Fiction authors described the rapid transformation of the city from a city of wooden buildings to a small metropolis, along with the fates of people surrounded by the modernising city.
Wed. 8 March 2–3:30 p.m. Afternoon Date: I, born and bred – examples of newer Helsinki-themed fiction
Social enlightenment, suburban living and everyday life in the growing metropolis are depicted in post-war literature.
Wed. 15 March 2–3:30 p.m. Afternoon Date: Interested in Helsinki’s past? – Selections from non-fiction works about the history of Helsinki
The history of Helsinki a constant topic of research. The first studies about the city were published in the 18th century, and this valuable publication work is continued by associations such as the historical board of the City of Helsinki.
Wed. 22 March 2–3:30 p.m. Afternoon Date: Crime in Helsinki – examples of detective novels set in Helsinki
The shady underbelly of the city has always interested many readers. This has been noticed by many authors, including Mika Waltari, Matti Yrjänä Joensuu, Harri Nykänen and Virpi Hämeen-Anttila.