Tromsø is one of the northernmost cities in the world. Only a few Siberian territories, and the outermost point of Alaska, lie farther to the north. The proximity of the Pole produces abrupt changes: in November, the sun no longer appears above the horizon; it will be night until January. Nowadays, the inhabitants of Tromsø live quietly in tower

blocks that boast all the modern conveniences. They have abandoned their fishing boats for well-heated offices. The memory of the harshness of past times, and the feeling that they are living what no one else lives, have instilled a special feeling in the residents of Tromsø, the pride of belonging to a strange and harsh world.