Lennart Meri's book "Hõbevalge" has now been published in English. The book will be 50 years old next year. It can now also reach those readers who could not read it before. The book tells about Estonian history and its impact on Estonian life over the past 50 years.
Jaan Undusk says that the book is very captivating. He himself read the book for the first time in 1984 and has been under its influence ever since. The book is written in such a way that it influences Estonians and helps shape a new Estonian ideology.
The book is mysterious and contains many descriptions of nature. There are trees, plants, and stumps, but also some surprises. Meri uses various techniques in the book to convince readers. He generalizes and talks about big topics.
Jaan Undusk remembers that he first read the book "Hõbevalgem", which was very exciting for a young person. It was like an adventure story with a lot of maritime technology. "Hõbevalge" seemed scattered at first. Now he thinks that these are two different books.
The books have now been reprinted and "Hõbevalgem" has been added to the beginning of "Hõbevalge". Jaan Undusk does not know if this makes the book stronger, but this was Lennart Meri's wish.
Next year, "Hõbevalge" will be 50 years since its publication. The book has been translated into Italian, Russian, and English. Jaan Undusk recalls that when the book was first published, everything was not as solemn as it seems now. Lennart Meri later became president, and the book took on a new meaning.
The book tells about Estonian history and its connections with the world. Meri wrote the story of Estonia, but he also wrote the story of the world. He tried to interpret the story of Estonia through the world or Europe. The book is full of poetry and captivating descriptions.
Jaan Undusk says that the book is very persuasive. Although some scholars do not believe everything Meri wrote, the book is still very impactful. Meri used various techniques to convince readers. The book is full of big ideas and thoughts related to Estonian history.