Stockholm redux

Back in Stockholm where it is easy to believe you're in another century.   The past is another country here that co-exists comfortably with the present.  The history of the Vikings, the great feats of battle and loss of territory are all here.  And so is the present of immigration and poverty.  Despite the fairy tale facade one sees the urban problems of homelessness and want.  Like any modern city homeless people walk through the streets carrying their lives on their backs. Beggars approach in the subway.  Groups of Muslim families gather on street corners gossiping and talking, looking simultaneously at home and alien:  the women dark eyed and beautiful, the men hovering protectively around.  One is reminded that all fairy tales have their dark sides, murderous parents and siblings who destroy each other.