Seklet - 1957 No 5-6

Magazine Overview

Title: Seklet
Issue: Nr 5-6
Date: 1957
Publisher: Litteraturförlaget
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish

This issue of Seklet magazine from 1957 explores a diverse range of topics, from the profound mystery of sleep to the practicalities of health and the speculative realm of flying saucers.

Articles

Sleep: The Gift of the Gods

The lead article, "SÖMNEN Gudarnes gåva" (Sleep, the Gift of the Gods), begins with a quote from Virgil, emphasizing sleep as a divine gift for mortals. It delves into the nature of sleep as a state of rest and rejuvenation, noting that it contains elements beyond current scientific understanding, such as dreams. The article highlights the historical use of sleep therapy in ancient temples, employing incense, suggestion, and hypnosis. It also touches upon the influence of music and colors on sleep, suggesting that rhythmic, calming music and blue or violet colors are conducive to sleep, while jazz and bright colors like red and yellow are stimulating.

Graphological Orientation

This section, "Grafologisk orientering," presents the fifth part of a graphology course. It posits that handwriting reflects the soul's workings and is a form of "behavioral pattern." The interpretation of handwriting must be integrated with other psychological methods, such as phrenology, suggesting that there should be a correspondence between graphological and phrenological analyses. The article illustrates this with an anecdote about recognizing Bismarck from his handwriting and physical description, linking his traits to astrological and frenological interpretations. It discusses how handwriting can reveal a person's character, including aspects like choleric temperament, leadership qualities, and potential melancholic tendencies.

The Development of Drama

"Dramats utveckling" traces the evolution of drama from its origins in medieval religious plays (miracle plays) to the modern era. It discusses the significant contributions of English playwrights, particularly Shakespeare, and the debate surrounding the authorship of his works, with theories pointing to Lord Bacon or a collective effort. The article then moves to French drama in the late 17th and early 18th centuries, mentioning Racine and Molière, and also acknowledges the Danish playwright Holberg. The development of German drama in the late 18th and early 19th centuries is highlighted with names like Schiller. The influence of film and television on drama in the last 75 years is also noted, alongside the continued relevance of Ibsen and Strindberg.

Health and Natural Remedies

Several articles focus on health and natural remedies. "ÖRTAGUBBEN" (The Herb Master) offers a range of natural products, including "Revigör" (a revitalizing amino acid and vitamin supplement), "Hansa Lechitin" (for heart, nerves, and blood), "ÄKTA VITLÖKSDROPPAR" (genuine garlic drops), and "Vitlökskapslar" (garlic capsules). Dr. Ritter's "VETEDIET" is presented as a modern slimming cure without hunger. Other products include "Be-Vital" (for nervousness and sleeplessness), "Manandragéer" (for vitamins and minerals), and various dragées for specific ailments like heart issues, nerves, and weight management. The magazine also features "Yerba-Mate" tea, "Fo-Ti-Tieng" (a longevity herb), "Gelée Royale" (royal jelly), and "Pollen" as health-promoting substances. "Dr. Ritters kallpressade VETEGRODDOLJA" (Dr. Ritter's cold-pressed wheat germ oil) is recommended for heart conditions. The issue also includes a section on "JO-KO-YOGHURT" for digestive health.

The Poisoned Human

"Den förgiftade människan" (The Poisoned Human) discusses how modern civilization, with its consumption of tobacco, alcohol, and processed foods, leads to various forms of poisoning. It argues that while the body can develop immunity to some toxins, this comes at the cost of overall health. The article criticizes the widespread use of artificial additives, colorings, and pesticides in food, as well as the overuse of medicines and vaccines, suggesting these contribute to a decline in human health and potentially affect future generations.

Flying Saucers and Automatic Writing

"Automatisk skrift och 'flygande tefat'" (Automatic Writing and 'Flying Saucers') addresses the phenomenon of automatic writing, suggesting it can stem from the individual's subconscious, a "universal consciousness," or communication with spirits. It notes the significant increase in automatic writing messages, particularly concerning Christianity and space travel. The article mentions three specific writings allegedly from "space travelers" warning about the dangers of nuclear experiments and war. The section "FLYGANDE TEFAT HAR LANDAT!" (Flying Saucers Have Landed!) promotes a book on the topic, posing questions about extraterrestrial life and its connection to atomic experiments.

Homeopathy in the Soviet Union

An article titled "Homeopatien i Sovjet" (Homeopathy in the Soviet Union) reports on the status of homeopathy in the USSR. It states that despite initial resistance from official medicine, homeopathy has gained public trust and is practiced in hospitals and pharmacies. The article notes that Soviet health authorities have commissioned professors to study homeopathic methods, and while definitive conclusions are pending, homeopathy is presented as a valid practice with principles harmonizing with classical medicine.

Utopias and the Path of Mankind

"UTOPIER" (Utopias) discusses the concept of utopian societies, tracing its origins to Thomas More's "Utopia" and other works like Morris's "News from Nowhere." It critiques these visions for often requiring a perfectly compliant populace or leading to societal control. The article then shifts to "Människosläktets väg" (Mankind's Path), arguing that human civilization, particularly since the advent of agriculture and the use of iron, has led to the exploitation and degradation of nature, including deforestation and soil depletion. It warns that current practices, relying on artificial fertilizers and unsustainable resource use, are leading to a decline in the earth's capacity to support its growing population.

The Woman's Right to the Priesthood

"Bör kvinnan erhålla rätt till präst-ämbetet?" (Should a Woman Have the Right to the Priesthood?) revisits an old debate, contrasting the views of Waldenström, who opposed women in the clergy, with the current discussion. The article notes the shift in societal views and the church's gradual movement towards considering women for priestly roles. It acknowledges the tradition of two millennia but suggests that change occurs in stages. The author raises questions about whether women possess the necessary discernment and balanced judgment for such roles, referencing Plato's views on women's capabilities.

"Maktpornografien" (Power Pornography)

This article criticizes the concept of "pornography" in public discourse, particularly its association with "freedom of the press." It argues that the idea of pornography being a necessary element of a democratic society is a misrepresentation, stemming from a lack of clear distinction between pornography and pathology. The author criticizes the media industry for catering to a perceived "mass taste" and laments the lack of protest from the women's movement against the spread of pornography. The article suggests that the commercial interests behind pornography contribute to the "impoverishment of individuals and, in time, the impoverishment of the nation."

Merlin

A poem titled "Merlin" is presented, depicting Merlin as a nature mystic, seer, and legendary figure. The poem explores themes of nature, life, death, and the journey to the "land of spirits," with Merlin offering cryptic answers about two gates: one adorned with roses and named "Saga," and another opening with lamentations and named "Death."

Book Reviews

The issue includes a list of "Läsvärda böcker" (Readable Books), featuring titles on human knowledge, parapsychology, spirituality, history, and various health-related topics, along with their prices.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes natural health remedies, alternative medicine (like homeopathy), and a critical view of modern civilization's impact on health and the environment. There is a recurring interest in the spiritual and the unexplained, evident in articles on sleep, dreams, graphology, phrenology, and flying saucers. The editorial stance appears to be one of questioning established norms and exploring less conventional ideas, while also engaging with historical and philosophical discussions. The magazine seems to advocate for a return to more natural ways of living and a deeper understanding of the human psyche and its connection to the wider universe.