great men, great artists ...

sweden pride itself of great many artists ... and sadly, one after the other, like most people do, they perish in either nasty accidents or poor health - better yet, old age.

i was saddened that half of this year alone, the likes of Ingmar Bergman, Påvel Ramel and Lars Forsell have passed away. these three gentlemen had, in one way or the other, touched the lives of a great many lovers of art and poetry, music, film and cinematography.

who have not encountered Bergman in their lifetime? he is a legend among legends in the world of film and cinematography across the globe. his works speak for itself - they are his legacy to those who have embraced the complexities of the art of film, cinematography and acting. his works are true remembrance of his wit, talent, humour and depth not only as an individual but as a true lover of his profession. bergman could draw out this uncharacteristic artistry from within him and share this unselfishly to his public. he was one who do not care how you would interpret his work - they are simply there to behold and grasp its meaning according to your liking. challenged will one be, and to challenge your mind and creativity was what bergman always aspired for.

and who is påvel ramel? he's one of my favourite novelty artist - he had dabbled in almost everything in the field of music, film, poetry, books and many other interests. i love his great sense of humour, his passion in everything he did, his drive for excellence and his love in living life in its simpliest but colourful form. påvel ramel was such a character to reckon with. i will miss his toothy laughs and smile on screen ... he was such a delight to watch on TV as well as having a chat with him in person --- it sends a tingle on your spine and your worries and anxieties go away by simply being around him. he has a very formidable presence one cannot miss. his humour is very transparent in his novelty songs - they are easy and catchy ... the melodies and tunes of his songs stays in your head --- wicked and always teasing that you would tend to hum them in your head or out loud ... how else am i supposed to describe Påvel and his works? they are simply the best - they're great, they're fantastic!

and what about Lars Forsell? he's a phenomenal poet ... a "voice" to reckon with. his swedish works were translated in many languages - quite a feat for such a very mellow and humble man. other than reading Astrid Lindgren's children books when i was still learning the swedish language, i was hooked into reading his short poems ... and they are sweet reference about love, hate, acceptance and ode to life itself. i was moved on how he described life using analogies in form of nature and its habitat concluding in afterthought how one should be grateful of the graces of one's existence.

ah, these great men ... great artists of their time ... i will always cherish the experience of having been one of those who have come to know them in my lifetime --- their work, passion and love of art and life itself have built an endless thread of images worth a treasure ... they will always linger in my mind.