On February 19, 1886, Karl Ast Rumor was born in Orava vald, and on July 9, 1971, he passed away in New York. Aivar Kulli commemorates Rumor's contributions to Estonian literature and history on the occasion of his 140th birthday. Although Rumor may not be considered one of the major figures in Estonian literature, writer Raimond Kolk has eloquently described him as an essential 'spice' in the literary canon, representing an irreplaceable value that endures over time.

Rumor's work is characterized by its unique blend of themes, including erotica, exoticism, and politics, often symbolically referred to as 'pepper and salt.' His novellas and the novel 'Krutsifiks' have left a vivid mark on the history of Estonian literature. Furthermore, his rich journalistic contributions were published between 2007 and 2009 in the 'Eesti mõttelugu' series, which compellingly showcase Rumor’s philosophy of life and his historical perspective as a restless world traveler.

A significant aspect of Rumor's life was the ongoing dialogue between his literary pursuits and his political inclinations. Throughout his life, the persona of Rumor as a writer intersected with Ast as a politician, reflecting complex tensions and interactions that undoubtedly influenced his outlook and writings. Kulli's examination of Rumor aims to shed light on the legacy of this lesser-known yet impactful figure in Estonian culture, as well as the nuances contained within his philosophical engagements with history and society.