From My Inner Garden

From My Inner Garden is Karen Selma Mariendal’s sixth book. Silence, presence, nature, belonging and what sustains us are central themes – a collection filled with hope and quiet joy.

The poems move between introspective moment-images and subtle observations of the world outside. The author has a rare ability to unite concrete depictions of nature with existential reflection. Particularly impressive is the way she allows simple natural elements – a flower, a leaf in the wind – to carry deeper layers of meaning.

Linguistically, Mariendal writes with great assurance. She has a strong sense of rhythm, stillness, space, and the unspoken, creating a meditative tone throughout the collection. The language is understated yet powerful and concentrated, with each word carrying weight and resonance. The book invites reflection, wonder, and presence in the moment. Many images linger with the reader.

A book for anyone seeking stillness and contemplation – across age, life phase, or worldview.

The cover image and illustrations are painted by Inger Dorthea Mariendal.

Karen Selma Mariendal (b. 1962 in Gjøvik) holds a Cand. Philol. degree with a major in German, and has worked as an editor, translator, and teacher. She now works as a translator and literary agent. She is married, has a daughter, a son, and a grandchild, and lives in Oslo.