Tiina Laanem: There is plenty of stupidity around that deserves louder attention
Author Tiina Laanem discusses her book 'Seest siiruviiruline,' encouraging shared reading experiences between grandparents and grandchildren while reflecting on aging and societal perceptions.
In a recent discourse, Tiina Laanem reflects on her nominated children's book 'Seest siiruviiruline' at the Cultural Capital's literature awards. She emphasizes the book's potential to foster connections between grandparents and grandchildren during reading times, allowing for personal storytelling that bridges generational gaps. Laanem points out that discussing one's past can be more challenging than it seems, highlighting the importance of sharing experiences and memories with younger generations.
Laanem also addresses societal attitudes toward aging, suggesting that most people are reluctant to embrace the aging process. Despite some individuals, particularly men, claiming to enjoy becoming dignified gentlemen, Laanem believes that few look forward to aging, especially as they approach pivotal ages like 30. She quotes Maimu Berg, who offers a different perspective: the alternative to aging is dying young, pushing the conversation about aging to a more nuanced level.
The implications of Laanem's perspectives extend beyond literature into societal norms and ethics of aging, fostering a conversation that challenges the taboo of discussing age and the process of growing older. Her work encourages readers to reconsider their attitudes towards aging and appreciate the value of intergenerational connections, as they reflect on life experiences and the stories that shape their identities.