2005 Sagan om smeden och stjärnan (Tomas Norström)

Smith of Wootton Major

Release Date: 2005.04.05
Reader: Tomas Norström
Language: Swedish
Translator: Britt G. Hallqvist
Organisation: Norstedts Audio / Pan hörböcker
ISBN: 9789173131209
Duration: 1 hours 5 minutes
Unabridged: Yes
Country: Sweden
Licenced: Yes
Formats: CD, Digital

Tomas Norström (1956–2021) is considered the “voice of Tolkien” for a generation of Swedish listeners. He was a highly respected Swedish actor and director, perhaps best known to the general public for his roles in the cult series Pistvakt and films like The Hunters (Jägarna). With a narration that is characterized by a “grounded” and earthy quality. He doesn’t go for over-the-top theatricality; instead, has a slightly dry, rhythmic, and clear delivery with subtle characterization—giving characters distinct personalities through pacing and tone rather than vocal gymnastics.

This uses the classic translation by Britt G. Hallqvist, a prominent poet and translator, known for her versions of Shakespeare and Goethe. Her translation of the title, Sagan om smeden och stjärnan (The Tale of the Smith and the Star), is the standard Swedish title, though some early editions were simply called Smeden från Stora Wootton.