Klamy originally intended this piece to be the third movement of his `Kalevala` suite. However, during its creation, the work grew too large and complex. The composer decided the piece had its own `logic` and scope. He excluded it from the suite so that it could exist as a stand-alone symphonic poem.
The music tells the story of Lemminkäinen`s adventures.
After murdering the owner of the house at a wedding in Pohjola, he, on his mother`s advice, flees to the island of Saari and spends years there, becoming renowned for his charm and ability to seduce almost every woman. Eventually, the island`s men return or seek revenge. Lemminkäinen is forced to flee by boat, leaving the weeping women behind.
