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Gun-Britt Sundström's novel Engagement now translated into English

The classic 1970s novel by Swedish author Gun-Britt Sundström is available in English for the first time.

July 20, 2025 at 07:00 PM

‘Coupledom is very oppressing’: Swedish author Gun-Britt Sundström on the revival of her cult anti-marriage novel

The revival of Gun-Britt Sundström's novel prompts a look at her views on love and today's youth.

Gun-Britt Sundström reflects on life and love as her classic novel is translated

Gun-Britt Sundström's celebrated novel, Engagement, originally published in the 1970s, has made a notable return as it is now being translated into English. The 79-year-old author shares her thoughts on its resurgence while sitting for a video interview. Although she once distanced herself from the novel, its ongoing relevance has surprised her. Sundström reveals that her characters grapple with the complex dynamics of love and independence. Through her protagonist, Martina, the narrative explores the tension between societal expectations of relationships and personal freedom. This modern tale resonates with contemporary discussions around gender, self-love, and autonomy.

Key Takeaways

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Gun-Britt Sundström's Engagement is translated into English for the first time.

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The novel questions the norms of love and independence.

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Sundström reflects on her past and the freedoms of her generation.

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Younger generations today face pressures that differ significantly from the past.

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Sundström critiques modern feminist movements for overlooking past gains.

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The character Martina embodies a struggle against traditional relationship roles.

"We’ve had a backlash. Unfortunately, we were freer in my generation than in my children’s."

This highlights Sundström's concern over the perceived loss of autonomy in younger generations.

"To be a couple… and still have our own lives is the ideal."

Sundström shares her personal perspective on relationships and independence.

"The idea of coupledom is even more oppressing to young people today than it was in my day."

Sundström emphasizes how modern relationship expectations can be burdensome.

"I often regretted that reviewers failed to mention the humor in my book."

Sundström points out an overlooked aspect of her novel that adds depth and relatability.

Sundström’s novel, often labeled as a feminist work, offers a deeper exploration beyond traditional categorizations. As she reflects on the pressures that modern young people, especially women, face today, Sundström argues that her generation enjoyed a freedom that is lacking now. This contrast raises important questions about the progress of feminist ideals and whether today's youth truly have the liberty to express themselves as freely as before. Her candid discussions around love, autonomy, and societal expectations present a rich commentary on contemporary relationships.

Highlights

Today's young people may feel even more confined by coupledom.
Sundström believes her generation had more freedom than today's youth.
The pressures women face today are not what they once were.
Engagement is more about autonomy than traditional love.

Political and cultural sensitivity regarding gender roles

Sundström’s commentary on modern feminism can be seen as controversial, reflecting a divergence of thought in contemporary discussions of gender rights.

Sundström’s insights can inspire a rethinking of love and individuality in modern society.

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gun-britt sundström engagement feminism novel relationships literature culture feminism

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