Kertomusärtymyksenä

Kertomusärtymyksenä is a Finnish term that translates roughly to "narrative frustration" or "story weariness." It describes a feeling of being overwhelmed or dissatisfied with the sheer volume of stories available in modern society. This can manifest as difficulty in choosing what to consume, a sense of déjà vu when encountering new narratives, or a general fatigue with the constant influx of information, entertainment, and personal accounts.

The phenomenon is often linked to the digital age, where platforms like social media, streaming services, and the internet make an unprecedented amount of narrative content accessible at all times. This abundance can lead to a paradox of choice, where the sheer number of options makes it harder to engage deeply with any single story. Furthermore, the repetitive nature of many narrative structures and themes across different media can contribute to a feeling of sameness.

Symptoms of kertomusärtymyksenä might include skipping through articles, abandoning books or shows midway, or feeling a lack of genuine engagement with cultural products. It can also extend to a weariness with the constant personal storytelling that occurs online, where individuals curate and share their experiences, contributing to the overall narrative overload. Recognizing this feeling can be the first step in developing strategies for more mindful media consumption and a more discerning approach to engaging with the stories that surround us.