Signs of Autumn

As the scorching embrace of summer gives way, the Scandinavian woods around us transition into 'haust,' 'høst,' or 'höst'—meaning 'harvest.' It's a season that holds a dual essence. Initially, it's a time of plenty: the woods brim with mushrooms, and fruit trees hang heavy with their bounty. But as the days shorten, there's an unmistakable shift. The temperature drops, life's pace decelerates, and the once jubilant birdsong dwindles, replaced by the rhythmic fall of autumn rain and the howling of storms. The rich tapestry of gold, brown, and red leaves signals the impending grip of winter.

The 'efterårstegn' or signs of autumn are unmissable. The hawthorn fruit matures, and the vibrant palette of the forest transforms. Then, almost as if overnight, chestnuts begin to litter the forest floor.

Here are some evocative snapshots that encapsulate this poignant change- and to put words to this sentiment, a translated excerpt from the Danish song "Sensommervisen" or "Late Summer Song" beautifully captures it:

"Apples gleam in red on tree limb's embrace,

Harvest enters in grace.

Walking solitarily through the woods, serene,

With a tranquil face.

Golden hues and the whisper of breeze,

Stir a wistful song's base.

Humming softly a tune of late summer,

From city noise, a distant place.

Summer's whisper ruffles the lake's guise,

Dark, mysterious, and wide.

Starlings in flocks soar above the isle,

Preparing their wintertide ride.

Scent of burning wood 'midst ferns turning brown,

Berries dark as the night's crown.

A gentle rustle 'mongst fading leaves,

As evening begins to come down."