Proving that some things do have a life of their own, here’s yet another good example of how lagom works in Swedish society. This one is from an American friend named Mary:
“I love that you have taken on the word “lagom”! (and pushiness too).
This is a word worthy of international exposure. I will never forget
the first year I lived here (1990) and I was speaking at a party about
myself and everyone got quiet – you know the feeling that you have
stepped over the invisible cultural boundary and you have no idea what
you have done. Then I found out that I wasn’t being lagom! Speaking
too much about myself. I think my dear husband told me (with kindness)
that I had broken Jantelagen.
“And don’t get me started on the pushiness!
“I love travel books and memoirs so I will LOVE to read your book!!!!
(now I’m “gushing” and being enthusiastic, another non-Swedish thing to
do).
{ 2 comments }
Is Jantelagen a synonym for lagom?
Good question! It is definitely related to lagom in that we are all supposed to be equal–don’t think that you are better than anyone else. It’s all part of a cultural code or way of thinking.
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