Seklet - 1961 Vol 08 No 2

Magazine Overview

Title: FRITIOFS SAGA
Issue: Nr 2, February 1961
Publisher: Litteraturförlaget
Country: Sweden
Price: 80 öre including cover

This issue of Seklet magazine, dated February 1961, presents a diverse range of articles, from literary analysis to psychological and scientific discussions, with a notable focus on the intersection of human behavior, societal issues, and potentially esoteric influences.

Fritiof's Saga: A Literary Wonderwork

The lead article, "FRITIOFS SAGA Ett diktens underverk." by E. Rönne-Petersen, analyzes Esaias Tegnér's epic poem "Fritiof's Saga." The author extols the work as a "wonderwork," not only for its linguistic brilliance and poetic sound but also for its profound psychological depth and immersive quality. It is suggested that Tegnér achieved an unparalleled level of empathy with his characters, making them relatable across time. The article contrasts this with the perceived primitivism in other historical or mythological narratives, noting that "Fritiof's Saga" avoids such pitfalls. The author also highlights Tegnér's ability to imbue his work with "winged words" that have entered the Swedish lexicon. The piece draws a parallel between Tegnér's mastery of language and logic and that of mathematicians, citing Oskar Levertin and the mathematician-poet Bengt E. Nyström as examples of this rare combination. The poem is characterized as an epic drama, comparable to Shakespearean works, but with a unique Swedish soulfulness.

Heavenly Sexuality and Modern Disconnect

Another prominent article, "Den himmelska sexualiteten" by E. Rönne-Petersen, critiques contemporary societal views on sexuality, particularly the impact of formal sex education. The author argues that the word "sexuality" is a modern import that has replaced a more natural, instinctual understanding of human connection. The article suggests that formal education, while aiming to inform, actually fragments the human psyche, dividing emotional life into compartments and leading to a loss of primal, authentic feelings. It draws a parallel with the Egyptian myth of Osiris, who was dismembered and whose wholeness could only be restored after death, symbolizing the fragmentation of the self in modern life. The piece laments that this intellectualization prevents individuals, especially children, from experiencing the full spectrum of emotional life and connection, contrasting it with a more holistic, perhaps mythical, understanding of existence.

Traffic Accidents: Cosmic and Earthly Influences

"TRAFIKOLYCKORNA" by O. Alexandersson explores the persistent problem of traffic accidents, proposing two less-discussed causes: the "cosmic factor" and "geopathic radiation." The article explains that cosmobiology suggests human behavior is influenced by celestial phenomena like sunspot activity and planetary rhythms. Specifically, the alignment of Mars, Uranus, and Saturn in the late months of 1960 is cited as contributing to increased impulsivity, irritability, and a tendency towards violence, thus exacerbating traffic risks. The second factor, geopathic radiation, refers to the harmful effects of underground water veins and earth radiation on human physiology and psychology. The author cites research, including that of Dr. Graupner and Adolf Flachenegger, demonstrating how these radiations can cause physical symptoms like cramps and disorientation, leading to accidents, particularly when drivers are already fatigued or sensitive. The article suggests that awareness of these factors and preventative measures, such as avoiding known geopathic zones or consciously breaking electrical circuits while driving, could mitigate risks.

Juvenile Delinquency: A Deep Psychological Perspective

"Ungdomskriminalitet som djuppsykologiskt nutidsfenomen" by E. Rönne-Petersen delves into the psychological underpinnings of juvenile crime. The author identifies two primary obstacles to understanding and addressing this issue in Sweden: a lack of genuine child psychology expertise, which is seen as overly reliant on American behaviorism (Watson-Gesell) and limited testing practices, and an extreme matriarchal societal structure. The article criticizes the prevailing psychological methodologies for being superficial and misinterpreting concepts like guilt, confusing super-ego guilt with more destructive psychoidal guilt. It argues that the matriarchal system hinders individuation and promotes regression, leading to societal fragmentation, particularly within families, evidenced by high divorce rates. The author also critiques the theoretical frameworks used by child psychologists, suggesting they are outdated and contribute to neuroses among professionals by promoting destructive interventions.

Book Reviews and Other Features

Several book reviews and shorter articles are included:

• "Skilsmässoproblemet och målet i Svensk TV 1960" by Egil Rönne-Petersen is reviewed. The book, a collection of essays, critiques Swedish divorce practices and family law, emphasizing the psychological impact on children and advocating for revisions to family legislation. It highlights the work of psychologists like Poul Freudenthal and Ewald Bohm.
• "Den himmelska sexualiteten" is further discussed in a dialogue between characters "Viktor" and "Agaton," who debate the book's critique of modern sexuality and its potential to disconnect individuals from their primal selves.
• "Mesmers 27 punkter" presents the core principles of Franz Mesmer's theories on animal magnetism, outlining his ideas about universal fluid, planetary influences, and the body's magnetic properties.
• "Polisens nyårsgåva" discusses a proposal to exempt female police officers from wearing uniforms, framing it as a positive step towards bio-positivism and mental health in a society perceived as increasingly decadent.
• "Livet och människan" by dr John Björkhem is presented as a guide to self-care and personal help for contemporary issues.
• "Mystik och realism" by Viktor Vallberg is a brief mention of a work on character research.
• "Hypnosen i mänsklighetens tjänst" by Poul Thorsen is described as a comprehensive overview of hypnosis, its history, therapeutic applications, and potential dangers.
• "Djävulsdansen" by Günther Schwab is reviewed as a "strong contemporary novel" that explores existential questions through a dialogue with the devil, offering a critique of modern materialism and a potential path to spiritual clarity.
• "Det eviga nuet" by fil. lic. Alfred Svanqvist is presented as a work exploring parapsychological phenomena and the existence of a spiritual reality beyond conventional understanding.

Health and Natural Remedies

The latter part of the magazine features advertisements and articles on health and natural remedies:

• "BIOLOGISKA MEDEL" promotes herbal products from Pommler, including Rättikdragéer (radish), Bönskalsdragéer (bean pods), Brännässeldragéer (nettle), and Jästdragéer med lecithin (yeast with lecithin), highlighting their purported benefits for various ailments.
• "Hagtornsdragéer" (hawthorn) are recommended for heart health, blood pressure, and circulation.
• "Linella" is presented as a natural remedy for digestive issues.
• "VETEGRODDOLJA" (wheat germ oil) is lauded for its high E-vitamin content and its benefits for heart conditions, circulation, and aging.
• "GLORIA" products, including a massage glove, strap, and foot roller made of hemp, are advertised for their benefits in improving circulation and overall well-being.
• "AKTA VITLÖKSDROPPAR" (garlic drops) are promoted as a natural, odorless remedy for various health concerns.
• "Bulgurt" and "Jo-Ko yoghurt" are presented as health foods, with "Bulgurt" claimed to destroy viruses and bacteria in the blood.
• "Akerfräkendragéer" (field horsetail) are recommended for bladder issues, as a disinfectant, and for their calming effects.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a holistic view of health, emphasizing natural remedies, herbalism, and the interconnectedness of physical, psychological, and even cosmic factors. There is a strong undercurrent of critique towards modern, materialistic, and overly rationalistic approaches to life, particularly in areas of psychology, sexuality, and societal structures. The editorial stance appears to favor a return to more primal, instinctual, and perhaps spiritual understandings of human existence, often drawing on historical, mythological, and esoteric traditions. The magazine also engages with contemporary social issues like divorce and juvenile delinquency, analyzing them through a psychological and sociological lens that often incorporates unconventional theories. The promotion of "SEKLET" itself as a platform for stimulating thought and providing unique content, such as the "sèance diction" concept, underscores its aim to offer alternative perspectives.