Unlike the Murakami novel of the same name, this book really is about Norwegian Wood – chopping, stacking, and drying wood the Scandinavian way. It may sound niche, but in that part of the world it can be a matter of life or death, or at least comfortable warmth or freezing cold.
Mytting starts with the cold, the raison d’etre for stockpiling sufficient quantity and quality of firewood ahead of the winter. He assesses the forest and the wood-burning potential of the various trees, then critiques the essential tools of the trade, before moving onto the all-important construction of the woodpile that ensures the proper seasoning of the fuel. (As an aside the woodpile also gives scope for artistic impression and provides insights into the character of the builder.) Finally, he covers the choice of stove and the heat-giving qualities of the fire itself.
The culture of woodsmanship is deeply rooted in rural Scandinavia, and Mytting expounds on it with understanding, affection, and no little science. Interspersed vignettes of characters involved in the processes adds a human touch to the essays.
It makes for an
almost sensuous read, particularly this hardback edition from the MacLehose
Press (Quercus) that is richly illustrated with beautifully detailed and
artistically staged colour photographs. A curiosity to be dipped into or read
slowly over winter evenings as the fire crackles in the stove.
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