#throwback – June 2nd, 2024

In the middle of the night, around 1:30 AM, I wake up with a jolt. I hear people walking past my tent. It’s Saturday, and it turns out to be a group of teenagers who’ve decided to hang out on the viewpoint above. Fortunately, there’s nothing going on — they’re just chatting cheerfully, and by the sound of it, there’s no alcohol involved. Once the adrenaline fades, I fall back asleep after about twenty minutes.

In the morning, I eat my breakfast at the picnic table. I also write for a while, watch the birds, and let my thoughts drift. What a lovely way to wake up, and what a dream of a desk I have once again. I feel deeply happy.

The route that follows is a sharp contrast to the peaceful start of the day. I walk long stretches through industrial zones and alongside a busy road. At the end of the day, I discover that there was an alternative route — the one in the Swedish app Naturkartan was incorrect. Still, I happen to pass an Intersport where I manage to buy a new gas canister. A lucky accident, since I had almost run out.

When I arrive in the centre of Linköping, it’s so warm that I stick to the shady sides of the streets. It feels like Spain. The cathedral is covered in scaffolding, but inside it’s stunning — and pleasantly cool. Pride Month has begun, and rainbow flags are flying inside the church — as they should.

Sitting outside on a bench, eating an apple, I suddenly hear singing. The choir has started its rehearsal. It sounds beautiful, but what makes it even more special is how much fun they’re clearly having. There’s lots of laughter, and it’s a joy to watch the conductor gesture when something’s off and show how she wants it redone.

Much later than planned, I continue walking — not that it matters. It stays light for a long time here, and there’s still plenty of time to find a place to camp. I eventually settle in a grassy roadside spot in the countryside, overlooking some farms and fields.

You won’t hear me complain.