[3][4] Carpelan's libretto is primarily based on the Swedish fairy tale, Prins Hatt under jorden (Prince Hatt under the Ground) which was in turn based on the ancient myth of Cupid and Psyche, but it also incorporates other elements from Swedish and Finnish folk tales.

[6] However, it was recorded in 1992 at Finlandia Hall conducted by Ulf Söderblom and released on the Ondine label later that year.

[8][9] It was performed again in 1999 at the Deutsche Oper Berlin in a touring production by the Finnish National Opera.

They recount the story of Prince Hatt, who has been imprisoned underground by his aunt, the Witch, and is rescued by an unnamed Princess.

The Princess first communicates with Prince Hatt by singing "The Tree of Life", which they both hear in their dreams.