The Danish word Hygge has no English equivalent but is defined as 'a concept, originating in Denmark, of creating a cosy and convivial atmosphere that promotes well-being." I am actually surprised that Canadians don't have a similar word, for like the Danes, we have to deal with long, cold winters with less daylight hours. As a coffee-drinking, introverted book reader who is not good at any outdoor sports (or indoor ones) I enjoy Winter quite a bit. I don't love it, but I definitely prefer it to summer in Toronto, where the humidity and smog reach such high levels that people with breathing issues can't leave their homes, and even going for a short walk will leave you in a pool of sweat.
I have a theory also (I have many theories) that there is more creative work done when the weather is miserable, as there is less temptation to go outdoors. I have nothing to back this up other than my own experience as a musician and writer, but I like to think of the number of authors and poets that have come from England as possible evidence.
friend of Charles Dickens: "would you like to go for a nice long walk tomorrow?"
Charles Dickens: "that sounds nice. what is the forecast?"
friend of Charles Dickens: "cold and damp with heavy rainfall."
Charles Dickens:"hmmm...maybe I will stay in and try to finish up this novel."
And so to all the outdoor sport-loving, book-hating extroverts I say take heart, Spring will be here before you know it. Reclusive, uncoordinated bibliophiles: it's OUR time now.
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