Elias Lönnrot began his journey to compile the Kalevala in the early 1830s, fueled by a desire to collect the fading oral traditions of Finland. The project involved extensive traveling, during which Lönnrot gathered songs and epics from local bards and storytellers across various regions. The meticulous process highlighted the importance of preserving national folklore and identity at a time when Finland was striving for greater autonomy and discussing its cultural sovereignty. In structuring the Kalevala, Lönnrot composed the material into a coherent narrative that reflected the beliefs, struggles, and aspirations of the Finnish people.

By signing and dating the first version, Lönnrot not only marked a significant personal achievement but also catalyzed the Finnish nationalist movement through literature. The Kalevala became a symbol of national pride and a source of inspiration for subsequent generations of writers, artists, and musicians. The heritage woven within its verses served to connect the modern Finnish identity with ancient traditions, enabling a sense of unity and continuity in a rapidly changing world.

The first version of the Kalevala was not the final edition; it evolved further with subsequent versions, culminating in the more developed edition published in 1849. Nevertheless, the 1835 version laid the foundational work for what would become a crucial text in Finnish literature and cultural history, further boosting Lönnrot's reputation as the 'father of Finnish poetry.' This initial signing represents the convergence of effort, culture, and national identity in literary history.