In conversation with Sara Baume, Carolina Pihelgas explores identity, living with borders, writing characters whose lives are shaped by dramatic change, and the power of immersion an isolated landscape.
“Fiction is the lie through which we tell the truth.” Albert Camus
Set in the near future, Carolina Pihelgas’ The Cut Line revolves around the inner life of a young Estonian woman who ends an abusive, toxic relationship and moves alone to a remote farmstead. Physical labour helps her withstand her ex-partner’s threats, the incredulity of friends and family, and her own anguish. Meanwhile, explosions and shots ring out from the NATO base nearby. Translated by Darcy Hurford.
Carolina Pihelgas is an Estonian writer, poet, translator and editor. Her collection Valgus kivi sees received the Estonian Cultural Endowment Award for the best poetry book of the year. In 2020, she was appointed Tartu’s City Writer Laureate.
In conversation with writer and artist Sara Baume, whose forthcoming book Opening Night explores the author’s friendship with artist Mollie Douthit, focusing on art, companionship, and daily rituals.
Funded as part of the Culture Programme for Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union 2026.