Meaning: This quote by Cornelia Funke, the renowned German author, provides a glimpse into her personal life and surroundings. Funke is best known for her captivating young adult fiction, including the "Inkheart" trilogy and "The Thief Lord." In this particular quote, she shares a brief insight into her physical location, Hamburg, and her living environment on the outskirts of the city.

Hamburg is a major port city located in northern Germany. It is known for its rich maritime history, vibrant cultural scene, and beautiful architecture. As Funke mentions that she lives in the north, she is likely referring to the northern region of Germany where Hamburg is situated. The city's location in the north gives it a unique climate and cultural identity within the country.

Funke's description of living on the outskirts of Hamburg, where it looks like countryside, offers a contrast to the bustling urban environment typically associated with the city. The outskirts of Hamburg are characterized by green spaces, open fields, and a more rural atmosphere. This setting likely provides Funke with a peaceful and scenic environment that may inspire her creative work.

As an author, Funke's surroundings and environment can significantly influence her writing. The tranquility and natural beauty of the countryside-like outskirts of Hamburg may offer her a serene space for reflection and creativity. In many of Funke's books, nature and the environment play significant roles, and it is possible that her own surroundings have influenced the settings and atmospheres of her fictional worlds.

Furthermore, Funke's mention of living on the outskirts of town also suggests a degree of separation from the city's hustle and bustle. This separation could provide her with a sense of distance from the distractions of urban life, allowing her to focus on her writing and storytelling. Many authors and artists find solace and inspiration in secluded or natural settings, and Funke's choice to reside on the outskirts of Hamburg may offer her a similar sense of creative freedom.

It's also interesting to note that Funke's connection to the countryside aligns with themes found in some of her works. In "Inkheart," for example, the protagonist Meggie discovers a hidden world within the pages of books, blurring the lines between reality and fiction. The idea of a countryside-like environment could evoke a sense of magic and adventure, elements that are often present in Funke's storytelling.

In conclusion, Cornelia Funke's quote about living in Hamburg's outskirts in the north offers a glimpse into her personal life and the influence of her surroundings on her work. The contrast between the urban city and the countryside-like outskirts may play a significant role in shaping her creative process and inspiring the settings and themes found in her novels. Funke's connection to nature and her serene living environment likely contribute to the imaginative and magical worlds she creates in her storytelling.