Eistationaarien

Eistationaarien is a traditional Finnish folk song genre that originated in the 19th century. The term "eistationaarien" is derived from the Finnish words "eistation" (ice station) and "aarien" (a song), reflecting the songs' origins and themes. These songs were sung by workers at ice stations, which were temporary structures built on frozen lakes to harvest ice for cooling and preserving food.

Eistationaarien songs are typically characterized by their simple, repetitive melodies and lyrics that often describe the hardships and challenges of life at the ice stations. The songs often include references to the harsh winter conditions, the physical labor involved in ice harvesting, and the camaraderie among the workers. The lyrics are often written in a straightforward, colloquial style, reflecting the oral tradition from which the songs emerged.

The most famous eistationaarien is perhaps "Käy kylmää, käy kuumaa" (It's cold, it's hot), which has become a symbol of Finnish winter culture. The song's lyrics describe the extreme temperature changes experienced at the ice stations, from the bitter cold to the warmth of the icehouse.

Eistationaarien songs have been preserved and popularized through various means, including recordings, folk festivals, and cultural events. They continue to be an important part of Finnish cultural heritage, offering insights into the lives and experiences of the people who worked at the ice stations.