"Stjarna" is one of the most beautiful instrumental pieces that I have ever heard. Every time I listen to it, it has a very tranquil, calming, and inspiring effect on me. "Stjarna" is sad, but this sadness is not dark... It is quiet and melancholy. It makes you want to cry and at the same time it is peaceful and soothing. It is music of the night. It speaks of the dark mysteries of human soul.

"Stjarna" is also about Hope. The Star symbolizes hope, belief, and faith - in love, in the possibility of finding happiness. The Star is the guiding light amidst the darkness that surrounds us; it is the promise of something wonderful, indefinable yet beautiful. This otherworldly beauty is beyond words or comprehension, but it exists within every one of us, and if we look very deep inside, we will find it there, in a still, quiet place within our souls...

What is "Stjarna"?
For those of you who don't know, it is a Depeche Mode song, written by M.L.Gore and rumored to be one of his personal favorites. You can find it on the "Little 15" single, and I am sure you will be instantly mesmerized by its magical sound.

On the CD single's sleeve it is spelled as "St. Jarna", a mistake made by the recording company which started much of the confusion as to the correct spelling and meaning of this word. So, to settle the confusion once and for all: "Stjarna" is a Swedish word for "Star", with a rather peculiar pronunciation.

Who is Stjarna?
Although this is not my real name, I do like it very much since the music of "Stjarna" has become such an essential part of who I am.

On a more personal note, I am 22 years old and I live in San Francisco, California. This incredibly beautiful city has been my home for the last five years. I had grown up in Moscow, Russia, and visited other wonderful countries, including Canada, Finland, Denmark, and England.

Although it might seem otherwise, Depeche Mode is not my only interest in life. In fact, I have just graduated with Bachelor's degree from Haas Business School of University of California, Berkeley. And whenever I can find some free time, I love to spend it with my friends, go clubbing, listen to music, watch the Ocean, read, write, travel to new (and favorite old) places.

In fact, there is a big new change taking place in my life right now: I'm saying good-bye to the beautiful San Francisco Bay Area and moving to the East Coast of the United States.  I'm going to New York! The reason for this big (and somewhat sudden, even for me) decision is that I was offered an awesome job on Wall Street. Needless to say, I'm very excited about the move, but also a little scared - after all, I don't really know anybody over there. Aaack!! But no fear, I know I'll do fine and will have a blast living in Manhattan! And if anybody knows the best party places in the City, please let me know :)

(Last updated: 1999)