Landscapes/Cityscapes:Snapshots of a Scandinavian Winter

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Snapshots of a Scandinavian Winter
by Catherine Skrzypinski

This photo journal by Catherine Skrzypinski contains both photos and prose. Photography was taken by the author, and prose was written by the author. Click on the images below to open Catherine's photo journal in a new window.

It’s told that the city here is ugly, dark and
creepy, honey.
I am waiting for a freezing winter…
It’s scary, but the city is never changing.
Oh, I wonder why
It will be a long, cold winter…

-Vinternoll (Winter Night)
Kent

I hate to say it, but all the Scandinavian stereotypes are true. Sweden, Denmark and Norway are populated by beautiful blondes who speak perfect American English. The Vikings of old are now liberated, tolerant people. For six months of the year, darkness encompasses the land, while a brutal winter sweeps over the Nordic countries, forcing Scandinavians to either hibernate under the soothing light of candles or take to the slopes.

Imagine my surprise when I was assigned to cover both Denmark and Norway in the dead of winter for the South China Morning Post. I figured after the Denmark assignment, I would be rewarded with a Mediterranean country to fight off the seasonal affect disorder, but no! I would be moving my thick JCrew sweaters, my Lucky Charms-inspired scarf and hat and practical boots from Copenhagen to Oslo.

Despite the fact that the sun doesn’t rise until 9 a.m. in December and January, Scandinavia is enchanting in the winter months. The concept of hygge (meaning cozy) is evident in the dimmed cafes along the Stroget in Copenhagen and in Grunelokka, Oslo. Since Scandinavia is so far north, the sun shines brightly when it’s out and causes the snow to shimmer. Snow is a rarity in Denmark, but Norway gets blanketed by the white stuff almost daily. Although there is a risk of frostbite and slippery sidewalks during this time, Scandinavians take to the streets well-prepared and without complaint. That’s what I admire most about the Danes and Norwegians –their ability to accept the bitterly cold winter as a way of life.

Looking at these pictures of Copenhagen, Oslo and Stockholm brings me back to the days when I was freezing, but the warmth of the memories will always remain with me.

Other articles by Catherine Skrzypinski:

• Classical Greece: a photojournal

• Buy A Vowel

• Tiptoeing Through The Tulips

• The Hidden Gems of Japan

• Shanghai Surprise

• London Calling, Backpacking and London Spotlights

• Midnight Train to Xi'an, China Spotlight, April 2002

• Take A Bite Out of the Big Apple, New York Spotlight, January 2002