Vuositarkistus

Vuositarkistus is a Finnish concept that refers to the process of re-date-ing and re-streaming traditional stories, myths, and legends from a previously dated and interpreted past, into the present day using contemporary and inclusive language.

This concept was popularized by Finnish author and playwright Tove Jansson, who wrote extensively on the topic in her later works. Jansson argued that traditional Finnish folklore, often told in a homogeneous and patriarchal manner, needed to be re-examined and re-interpreted to reflect the diversity and complexities of modern Finnish society.

Vuositarkistus involves taking existing stories and giving them a new date or context, often through the substitution of characters, settings, and plot elements. This process allows for the re-discovery of stories and their themes in a way that is relevant to contemporary audiences.

Critics of vuositarkistus argue that it amounts to a form of cultural appropriation, where the stories of others are taken out of their original context and re-worked to suit the interests of a dominant culture. Proponents, however, see vuositarkistus as an opportunity to revitalise and re-imagine traditional stories in a way that is inclusive and forward-thinking.

The concept of vuositarkistus has been influential in Finnish cultural and literary circles, and has inspired new works of fiction, drama, and poetry that draw on traditional stories and themes.