Gustaf Qvennerstedt

"At Broms School on Sturegatan, I found companionship and openings towards another and more tolerant adult world. My best friends became Gustaf Lindencrona, Gustaf Qvennerstedt, and Magnus af Ugglas. I spent a lot of time after school at the homes of both Gustafs. There, one could be in peace while the parents were positively engaged and encouraged their children. I discovered that my defense of corporal punishment was the defense of a bird in its cage. I promised myself never to lay a hand on my children if I were to have any. For me, it was a joy to be at home with these families. What I saw and felt had a significant influence on how my life and values would turn out to be. However, the company did not make life easier at home, as I began to strongly doubt authority of a violent kind."

"All the "private students" would be tested on all subjects in late spring. Jane Lindencrona kept a friendly watchful eye on both her son Gustaf and me. Gustaf was very nervous despite being the brightest in the class, while I, strangely enough, hardly even thought about what awaited at home if I didn't get in. I think that was why it went very well. Mother Lindencrona spoke several times about this calm of mine. I actually believe she thereby strengthened my self-image—that I gained further calm in the face of expected trials and difficult situations, a kind of destiny-laden determination to endure and get through. But when the new school started, the order was soon restored with Gustaf Lindencrona at the top, Magnus af Ugglas doing well, and me in the lower half. My friend Gustaf Qvennerstedt went to another school, but we continued to socialize."