kirje

Kirje, in Finnish, means a letter—a written message sent from a sender to a recipient, traditionally delivered through the postal system but increasingly transmitted electronically. Letters have served as a durable means of distant communication, recording information, exchanges, and expressions of personal or official intent. Historically, writing materials evolved from clay and papyrus to paper, while organized postal services enabled longer-range delivery and standardized addressing, postage, and handling.

Structure and style: A letter typically includes the date and a salutation, followed by the main body and a closing signature. Formal letters often include a subject line, recipient address, and a conventional tone; personal letters may be more intimate and flexible in form. In many cultures, letters adhere to etiquette conventions regarding greeting, politeness, and closings.

Types: Personal letters, business letters, official correspondence, and diplomatic notes are common categories. Epistolary forms also appear in literature and diaries, and letters can be archived as personal keepsakes or historical documents. Legal and administrative letters may establish contracts, notices, or official communications.

Format and media: Physical letters require writing material, ink, envelopes, stamps, and addresses. Digital letters take the form of emails, messaging applications, or other electronic communications, often faster, cheaper, and more easily archived. Even in the digital era, physical letters persist for formal documentation, gifts, or ceremonial occasions, while archives and libraries preserve historic letters for research.