Agneta Pleijel, a celebrated figure in Swedish literature primarily known for her novels, is stepping into a new artistic realm as her poetry finds a melodic voice in the upcoming jazz album ”Härifrån” (From Here). This collaborative project with singer-songwriter Emma Augustsson breathes musical life into Pleijel’s poetic works, showcasing a diverse jazz landscape that traverses rhythmic dynamism, melancholic introspection, and moments of free-flowing improvisation. Pleijel, expressing surprise and delight at the interpretation of her texts, welcomes this artistic crossover, particularly appreciating the interest shown by a younger generation artist in her body of work. The album marks a significant departure for Pleijel, whose literary contributions have traditionally resided within the domain of prose.
”Härifrån” promises a rich tapestry of musical expressions, reflecting the multifaceted nature of Pleijel’s poetic voice. The press release describes the album as a journey through varied jazz styles, encompassing lively and rhythmic passages, moments of profound and melancholic beauty, and sections of unrestrained, improvisational exploration. This dynamic interplay of musical textures creates a captivating auditory experience, further enhanced by Augustsson’s vocals and Pleijel’s own interspersed readings, adding another layer of depth and intimacy to the album’s narrative. The fusion of poetry and jazz presents a unique opportunity to engage with Pleijel’s work through a different lens, offering listeners a fresh perspective on her literary artistry.
While Pleijel’s reputation rests firmly on her achievements as a novelist, her poetic endeavors, though less widely recognized, represent a significant aspect of her creative output. Her published poetry collections, ”Änglar, dvärgar” (Angels, Dwarfs) from 1981, ”Ögon ur en dröm” (Eyes from a Dream) in 1984, and the August Prize-nominated ”Mostrarna och andra dikter” (The Aunts and Other Poems) in 2004, demonstrate a poetic sensibility that complements her prose writing. These collections explore themes of personal experience, societal observation, and the complexities of human relationships, revealing a depth of emotional and intellectual exploration that resonates with her prose works. ”Härifrån” offers a chance to rediscover these poetic expressions through the transformative power of music.
Emma Augustsson, the musical force behind this project, brings her own artistic credentials and experience to the collaboration. A skilled singer and composer, Augustsson has previously demonstrated her ability to translate literary works into music with her 2024 album ”Ex libris Karin Boye,” which set the poems of Swedish modernist poet Karin Boye to music. This prior experience with adapting poetic language to musical form positions her ideally to interpret Pleijel’s work, capturing the essence of her poetic voice while imbuing it with a fresh, contemporary jazz sensibility. Augustsson’s musical interpretations are poised to introduce Pleijel’s poetry to a new audience, broadening the reach and impact of her literary contributions.
The release of ”Härifrån” on January 17th marks the beginning of a new chapter for both Pleijel and Augustsson. The album represents a unique intersection of literary and musical artistry, bridging the gap between written word and sonic expression. For Pleijel, it offers an opportunity to explore her poetry through a different medium, allowing her words to resonate in a new and dynamic way. For Augustsson, the project provides a platform to showcase her musical talent and her ability to translate poetic language into compelling musical compositions. The collaboration promises a captivating listening experience that transcends traditional genre boundaries.
Following the album’s release, Emma Augustsson will embark on a short tour in March, bringing the music of ”Härifrån” to audiences in Borås, Gothenburg, and Farsta. This tour will offer a live rendition of the album’s musical interpretations of Pleijel’s poetry, providing a direct and intimate connection between the artists, their work, and the audience. The live performances will further enhance the impact of the collaboration, allowing listeners to experience the fusion of poetry and jazz in a vibrant and engaging setting. The tour represents a culmination of the creative process, bringing the music of ”Härifrån” to life beyond the recorded format.
