It is quite the challenge. To find words with which to introduce a poet presumes familiarity with not only poetry but with - dare one say?- the necessary mindset. And then there are what often seem as unavoidable labels. Patriotic? Minimalist? Naturalist? Realist? Surrealist? Existentialist? Humourist? Absurdist? All required at times to enable general categorization, yet they remain, unfortunately, labels nevertheless.

Eerik Purje is a man who cannot be labelled, placed into any convenient category for identification purposes - even if one or more of the above Capitalized categories might apply. What sets him words and worlds apart from the vast majority, the weekend wordsmiths, is his genuine and real appreciation and passion for the power of words, the lyricism of language, most importantly his deep love for his mother tongue.

Estonian is not only a very musical language, it is a language that allows for sly humour, for cleverness, and word-play. Eerik’s recognition and sensitive awareness of the songfulness inherently present in both Estonian word and music has fed his personal muse since his childhood, and has been expressed ever since both in musical composition and poetry.

His personal, and intense exuberance, style and feeling come forth perhaps best in his poetry, although he is quick to pronounce no claim to the seemingly pretentious title of poet. Comparison with critically lauded poets, however, suggests that he has a place in their ranks.

Thus rose the goal of publishing a volume of Eerik Purje’s poetry, with the title of “Tunglaid ja teri” - translatable on many levels; on the surface level here, as torches and kernels.

Self-publishing is a pricey undertaking, and Eerik Purje is hoping for support from the local community. To this end an afternoon with Purje’s poetry will take place at 1 pm on Wednesday, October 12th at the Toronto Estonian House Crystal Hall.

An account - “Luulefond” - has also been opened at the Toronto Estonian Credit Union, number 118170. Supporters who wish to give backing of $100 or more will be included in a Tabula Gratulatoria, and will also receive a copy of the collection. These sponsors are asked to contact Eerik directly to ensure inclusion and his personal thanks.

Eerik Purje, a man with many ways with many words, can be reached by telephone at 905 672-1969, e-mail eerik@sympatico.ca

Most certainly, the best course of action is to attend the event on October 12, to decide then with your own ears and heart, how to support this poetry publication project.