Høstmørke

Høstmørke (literally "autumn darkness" in Norwegian) refers to the characteristic darkness and associated atmosphere of the autumn season, particularly in regions of Norway and other parts of Scandinavia. It encompasses the gradual reduction in daylight hours, the lengthening nights, and the overall dimness and gloom that pervades the landscape as summer transitions into winter.

Høstmørke is more than just a description of the amount of daylight; it also embodies the cultural and emotional association with this time of year. The term often evokes feelings of introspection, melancholy, and anticipation of the coming winter. It can also be associated with cozy indoor activities, such as reading by the fire, and enjoying hearty, warm meals.

The period of høstmørke typically begins in late September and continues through October and November, culminating in the winter solstice and the darkest days of the year. The impact of høstmørke can vary depending on latitude; areas further north experience more extreme variations in daylight and a correspondingly more profound sense of autumn darkness.

In popular culture, høstmørke is often used as a setting or theme in literature, film, and music, frequently to create a sense of mystery, foreboding, or solitude.