Seklet - 1942 No 1

Magazine Overview

Seklet - Issue 1, 1942

This issue of 'Seklet' magazine, dated October 1942, presents a diverse range of articles exploring themes of destiny, divination, psychology, and the Swedish language. The cover features a portrait of a young woman and poses the questions: "Is the future predetermined? Can the pendulum give an answer?"

Contents:

• Is the future predetermined? Can the pendulum give an answer? This section delves into the use of pendulums for divination. It recounts an experience with a preacher who demonstrated how a pendulum could be used to determine the sex of eggs and to answer questions by observing its swing patterns (ring for female, straight line for male). The article explores the mysterious nature of these phenomena and suggests a connection to the subconscious mind.

• ÖDEMARKENS FAMNTAG (The Embrace of the Wilderness) This is presented as an interesting serial from the land above the Arctic Circle, described as "the land that God created for men." The first chapter sets a scene of harsh winter conditions in a remote Swedish wilderness, introducing two characters, Axel Ek and Kurre, who are facing isolation and the challenges of their environment.

• Authors on their works. This section likely features interviews or discussions with authors about their writings.

• Book Review. A review of the book "Sören Kierkegaard i psykologisk belysning" by John Björkhem is included.

• Housewife's Page. A section dedicated to topics relevant to housewives.

• Youth and Children's Page. A section for younger readers.

Key Articles and Features:

"Vad säger detta ANSIKTE?" (What does this FACE say?)
This article discusses the significance of facial features and head shape in understanding a person's inner qualities, touching upon the concept of phrenology without going into excessive detail. It announces a contest for readers to interpret the face on the cover, with a prize for the best answer.

"Kan pendeln giva svar?" (Can the pendulum give an answer?)
This article elaborates on the use of pendulums. It describes experiments where a pendulum, suspended by a thread, was used to determine the sex of eggs and to identify the gender of the writer of an address on an envelope. The author recounts a personal experience with a preacher who demonstrated these techniques. The article also touches upon the idea that the pendulum's movements might be linked to the subconscious mind. Further experiments are described, including using a pendulum to identify the gender of a person in a photograph and even to locate a person's address on a map. The author emphasizes that while the results may seem mystical, they are presented as observable phenomena.

"Ombud sökes" (Agents Wanted)
An announcement seeking agents for 'Seklet' magazine across the country, offering a high commission.

• "Märkliga människor. Alfred Russel Wallace." (Remarkable People. Alfred Russel Wallace.)
• This extensive article profiles Alfred Russel Wallace, a naturalist and thinker. It details his life, his scientific expeditions to the Amazon and the Malay Archipelago, and his significant contributions. Key areas covered include:
• Natural Selection and Evolution: Wallace's collaboration with Darwin and his own work on evolutionary theory, emphasizing the transition from inorganic to organic life, conscious life, and human development.
• The Land Question: Wallace's critique of land distribution in England and his advocacy for reform.
• "The Scientific View of the Supernatural": His work exploring an immaterial world behind the material.
• "The Century of Miracles": A summary of the 19th century's achievements and shortcomings.
• Phrenology: Wallace's interest and findings in this field.
• Compulsory Vaccination: Wallace's critical stance against vaccination, which he deemed a delusion.

The article concludes by highlighting Wallace's broad intellect, logical reasoning, and independent thinking, positioning him as a distinguished scientist of his era.

• "Visdomsord och vers" (Words of Wisdom and Verse)
• This section features quotes and poems from various individuals, including:
• A quote from Paul about humility.
• A poem by Harald Jacobson.
• A poem by B. E. Malmström.
• A quote from Ludwig Börne.

"OM SVENSKA SPRÅKET" (On the Swedish Language)
This article, attributed to Olof von Dalin (1708-1763), discusses the importance of preserving the purity of the Swedish language and criticizes the excessive influence of foreign words, particularly French. It argues that true skill and wisdom lie not just in knowing foreign languages but in mastering one's native tongue. The author laments the current state of the Swedish language, which he sees as being corrupted by foreign influences and a misguided emphasis on linguistic proficiency over genuine intellect.

"VILDMARKENS FAMNTAG" (The Embrace of the Wilderness) - Chapter 1
This is the beginning of a serial narrative set in the Swedish North, above the Arctic Circle. It describes the harsh, isolated environment and introduces two characters, Axel Ek and Kurre, who are living in a remote cabin. The chapter depicts a tense conversation between them, hinting at past events and their current struggles with the wilderness and perhaps with each other. The narrative focuses on the atmosphere of isolation and the raw, untamed nature of the setting.

"Morgonens Maning" (The Morning's Call)
A poem that speaks of a new day, the call to a higher purpose, and the pursuit of truth and righteousness. It contrasts the fleeting nature of earthly life with the eternal.

"Är framtiden förutbestämd?" (Is the future predetermined?)
This article begins a series exploring the concept of predestination versus free will. It references Arthur Schopenhauer's views on precognitive dreams, citing an example where a dream accurately predicted a mundane event (cleaning an ink spill). The author suggests that such occurrences, while seemingly coincidental, point towards a deterministic aspect of reality. The article also briefly mentions a similar experience with a teacher and a dream about a factory, further questioning the role of chance.

"KÄRLEK" (Love)
This article by Dan Åberg discusses the concept of love, arguing that it is often misunderstood and that true love is about giving rather than receiving. It emphasizes that love is a powerful force that can overcome hate and division, and that it is the strongest element in the world.

Bokanmälan (Book Review): John Björkhem's "Sören Kierkegaard i psykologisk belysning"
This review highlights the significance of both the subject, Sören Kierkegaard, and the author, John Björkhem, a theologian and philosopher. It notes that while some modern psychologists view Kierkegaard as mentally disturbed, Björkhem argues that he was a genius. The review quotes Björkhem stating that "honesty in human inquiry is the only criterion of science," and discusses the subjective nature of psychological analysis, referencing figures like Freud, Adler, and Jung.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine 'Seklet' appears to adopt a stance that embraces the exploration of the unknown and the mystical, while also engaging with scientific and philosophical inquiry. There is a clear interest in phenomena that challenge conventional understanding, such as pendulum divination and precognitive dreams. The magazine also champions the preservation of the Swedish language and culture, as seen in the article by Olof von Dalin. The inclusion of a fictional serial set in the wilderness and a discussion on love suggests an interest in human experience and the natural world. The editorial stance seems to be one of intellectual curiosity, encouraging readers to question, explore, and engage with a wide range of ideas, from the spiritual to the psychological and linguistic.

This issue of 'Seklet' magazine, dated 1942, presents a blend of practical advice and intellectual exploration. The prominent 'MATSIDA' (Food Page) is edited by Alma Nordmark, offering vegetarian recipes and culinary guidance. Additionally, the magazine features a significant review and excerpt from V. Vallberg's book 'Människokunskap' (Human Knowledge), alongside a section dedicated to reader inquiries and a catalog of books from Litteraturförlaget.

Matsida: Culinary Delights by Alma Nordmark

The 'Matsida' section introduces Alma Nordmark as the new editor, who aims to provide readers with valuable recipes. She emphasizes that while 'Seklet' is not exclusively a vegetarian magazine, it will feature meat-free recipes, as these are often overlooked in mainstream publications. Nordmark offers suggestions for two daily dinners, stressing the importance of starting meals with raw foods or fruits. Recipes include:

• Råkostsallad (Raw Food Salad): A simple salad of grated celeriac, white cabbage, and apple, dressed with lemon juice and a touch of sour cream.
• Bondbönsoppa (Broad Bean Soup): A hearty soup made with broad beans, carrots, milk, and thickened with wheat or potato starch, seasoned with parsley.
• Wienerbullar med gräddsås (Vienna Buns with Cream Sauce): A dish featuring a mixture of carrots, spinach, and potatoes, ground and formed into buns, then fried. The accompanying cream sauce is made with vegetable broth, cream, and seasoned with soy sauce for color.
• Krusbärspaj med vaniljsås (Gooseberry Pie with Vanilla Sauce): A pie with a pastry base filled with gooseberries, topped with a lattice of pastry.
• Vaniljsås (Vanilla Sauce): A standard vanilla sauce made with cream, milk, and potato starch.

Further recipes include:

• Råkostsallad (Raw Food Salad): A variation with cucumber, radishes, and red cabbage, dressed with orange or lemon juice.
• Sockertoppskål (Sugarloaf Cabbage): A preparation of finely shredded cabbage, briefly boiled, then sautéed with butter and broth.
• Stekta kronärtskocksbottnar (Fried Artichoke Bottoms): Artichoke bottoms coated in a batter of oil, flour, egg, salt, and sugar, then deep-fried.
• Champignonsås (Mushroom Sauce): A sauce made from sautéed mushrooms, butter, flour, and milk or cream.
• Äppelkaka med vaniljsås (Apple Cake with Vanilla Sauce): An apple cake made with mashed apples, lemon peel, cinnamon, and a base of breadcrumbs, layered with apple sauce and bread, then baked and moistened with apple or lemon juice.

The section also provides two raw food suggestions for summer and autumn: grated carrots with raisins and sour milk/cream, and raw red onion.

Varför? - Därför. (Why? - Because.)

This section invites young readers to submit questions, with answers to be published in subsequent issues. It also poses three questions for readers to answer:

1. Why does the sky appear blue, and why are sunsets often so colorful?
2. Why do mercury levels in thermometers rise or fall, and what is the difference between Celsius and Fahrenheit scales?
3. Why do mercury levels in barometers rise or fall, what does a barometer-determined altitude mean on a general staff map, and what is 'tacking' (kryssa) in sailing, and which king was nicknamed 'Väderhatt' (Weather Hat) and why?

Answers are due by November 10th.

Om svenska språket... (About the Swedish Language...)

This continuation discusses the importance of preserving and promoting the Swedish language. It laments the tendency to adopt foreign words and phrases, arguing that Swedish is a rich and versatile language capable of expressing complex ideas. The author advocates for clear, concise writing and the use of pure Swedish words, criticizing the trend of overly long and convoluted sentences.

Bokanmälan (Book Review)

This section reviews "Människokunskap" (Human Knowledge) by V. Vallberg. The review highlights the book's comprehensive nature, covering fields such as ethnology, psychology, morphology, phrenology, radiology, iridology, moral philosophy, religion, upbringing, and spiritual care. It quotes a review by Georg Granberg from Sundsvalls Tidning, praising Vallberg's contribution to Swedish intellectual history and the book's engaging style. The review notes that the book is not dry or difficult to read, despite its scholarly content, and that Vallberg's ability to be concise is evident.

The book is described as a 'university in itself,' featuring insights from many great thinkers. The author, V. Vallberg, is quoted as hoping the book will not be understood, suggesting that what people are unwilling to learn through conscious effort, they will be forced to learn through events. The review also mentions a planned second volume.

Människokunskap innehåller bl. a. (Human Knowledge includes, among others:)

This subsection lists the contents of Vallberg's book, including:

• Introduction
• Body Shape and Head Shape
• Freedom of Will
• The Four-Part Temperament Theory
• Morphology: Carl Huter's System, Kretschmer's System, Leclercq's System, Lavater's Physiognomy
• The Planetary Types
• C. G. Ljung's Four (Eight) 'Psychological Types'
• Phrenology: History, Basic Principles, Phrenological Orientation, Gall's Phrenological Doctrine, Phrenological Organology, Types and Diagnoses
• Iridology and Phrenology
• Man: Man and Religion, Man and Upbringing, Human Knowledge and Spiritual Care

The book is priced at 8:50 SEK for the paperback and 11:50 SEK for the hardcover.

Kloka djur (Wise Animals)

This section tells stories about rats, highlighting their intelligence and social behavior. It includes anecdotes about rats gnawing through walls, forming 'chain gangs' to steal eggs, and demonstrating loyalty, such as a young rat guiding a blind older rat.

Ungdomens sida (Youth Page)

This page features two indoor games:

1. Sätt svansen rätt (Put the Tail Right): A game where players, blindfolded, attempt to draw a tail onto a picture of an animal.
2. Rita i spegel (Draw in the Mirror): A game where participants try to copy a drawing by looking at it in a mirror.

Litteraturförlaget presenterar (Litteraturförlaget Presents)

This is a catalog of books available from Litteraturförlaget, with titles, authors, and prices. Notable authors and their works include:

• V. Vallberg: 'Intelligensmätningar och tidspejlingar', 'Lappmarkens själ', 'Ögondiagnosens grunder', 'Mystik och realism', 'Huru jag blev lekmannaläkare', 'Tandrötan', 'Vaccinationen'.
• Vivos Voco: 'Hälsoörter'.
• Gadd: 'I naturens djungel'.
• Bircher-Benner: 'Näringslära', 'Vad skola vi ge våra barn'.
• Hollerts: 'Doktor Mark'.
• Torver: 'En storljugare'.
• Andreasson-Esser: 'Mörk legend'.
• Olners: 'Biljarden på styckeholm'.
• Fejerstam: 'Naturlig barnregering'.
• Rönnbäck: 'Kalle Svensk vid gränspolisen'.
• Molin: 'Ett livskraftigt folk'.
• Åberg: 'De voro kämpar'.
• Price: 'Ljus genom töcknen'.
• Thomasson: 'Antikrist och hans tjänare'.
• Svärd-Carlsson: 'Som din dag är skall din kraft vara'.
• Landelius: 'Den stora franska revolutionen'.
• Althén: 'Dietikens ABC'.
• Ljungström: 'Nu stundande världshändelser'.
• Rosenberg: 'Mänsklighetens moralförfall'.

The catalog also mentions that Litteraturförlaget can procure any book from any publisher or antiquarian. Orders with payment included receive free shipping.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine 'Seklet' appears to champion intellectual curiosity and self-improvement, as evidenced by the extensive review of V. Vallberg's 'Människokunskap.' The editorial stance also supports the promotion of the Swedish language and culture, as seen in the article discussing its importance. The 'Matsida' section indicates a leaning towards healthy and potentially vegetarian lifestyles, offering practical advice and recipes. The inclusion of reader participation sections ('Varför? - Därför.') and youth-oriented content suggests an aim to engage a broad readership across different age groups and interests. The magazine also functions as a platform for its affiliated publisher, Litteraturförlaget, to promote and sell its diverse range of books.