Insights from Solvej Balle on Her Book 'On the Calculation of Volume I'

Solvej Balle discussed her novel, On the Calculation of Volume I, which features a time-loop narrative centered on a woman named Tara Selter, who is trapped on November 18th. Balle originally conceived the idea in 1987, but initially hesitated to pursue it, especially after the release of the film Groundhog Day. Despite her reservations, the concept persisted, compelling her to explore it further.

The writing process was lengthy, taking from 1987 to 2020 for the first volume to be published in Danish. Balle noted that the development of her main character required time and personal growth. Early on, she produced fragments and notes, but around 1999 or 2000, she began drafting the initial part of the book. Although she experienced numerous obstacles and doubts throughout the process, she felt a sense of satisfaction when a text began to take shape.

Balle recalled that a Danish children's book, The Blue-Eyed Pussy, sparked her love for reading during her early childhood. The story revolves around a blue-eyed cat who is dismissed by yellow-eyed cats but ultimately proves its identity. She also highlighted Michel Tournier's Friday as influential in her desire to become a writer, appreciating its depth of thought, despite acknowledging its male-centered perspective.