You shake my whole being.

I just discovered the Finish writer Eeva Kilpi, and I cannot believe it has taken me this long to read her poetry. Her poetry contains all the components I love the most: an inventive voice, simplicity, and unforced emotion. It has been very very long since I've read anything that has touched me so furiously as her simple descriptions of life and love. Here's a few of her shorter poems, two great examples of her ability to pack huge sentiments in very small packages. Although I do feel that these English translations by Finish editor Anniina Jokinen fails to do the poetry complete justice, they were the best I could find for now.


Your Scent On Me

Your scent on me
For many days,
For many days
I love myself. 
- Eeva Kilpi -



Tell Me Immediately if I am Disturbing You

Tell me immediately if I'm disturbing you,
He said, coming in the door,
And I will leave right away.

You not only disturb,
I answered,
You shake my whole being.
Welcome. 
- Eeva Kilpi -

I will venture to read some of her novels during the fall as well, so more to come.