"Att vara som folk"

Jämförelser mellan persiskt och norrländskt

Abstract

Do similarities exist between the Persian form of social intercourse and the form of social intercourse one meets among the rural population of northern Sweden? During my field-work at an activities centre for elderly immigrants I discovered numerous common denominators between Persian culture and the traditional culture of Frostviken, my own native district in the northern interior.

Discreet behaviour and a certain amount of reserve when confronted with strangers is something considered desirable by both groups. Shows of hospitality as well as strong family ties are highly prized. However, the symbolic formulation of these values differ in their respective cultures.

In traditional culture of Frostviken an unobtrusive cultural language is employed, implying a tape of sub-communication of emotions. In Persian culture it is not considered incorrect to display admiration and respect for someone ⁠— on the contrary, expressing mutual esteem is an aspect of basic good manners.

In other words, indirect honour to others through a display of generosity and hospitality is a feature which unites "the Persian" with "the Frostvikian". On the other hand, the Iranians' more direct display of courtesy ⁠— through language as well as embraces and kisses to embellish their emotions ⁠— stands in distinct contrast to the stoical linguistic subcommunication of the inhabitants of Frostviken and their retentive attitude toward bodily contact.