Olav Stromness

Biography
Olav Stromness was born in the coastal town of Tykktarm in 562 AV. As a young man, he displayed a keen intellect and a love for tradition and the old ways of doing things. He went on to study at the prestigious Grunwess College in the capital of Støylen, where he earned a degree in history and politology.

After graduation, Olav began a successful career as a journalist, working for several of Torskland's leading newspapers. He was known for his conservative views and his strong opinions on social and political issues. He was especially critical of the growing trend of progressivism and modernization, which he saw as a threat to traditional values and norms.

In 591 AV, Olav was offered the position of columnist for the Wikhulla Informer, a small but influential local newspaper in the city of Wikhulla. He accepted the offer and quickly established himself as a prominent voice in the community, writing regular columns on a variety of topics ranging from local politics to national events.

But it was his views on the Lardsenn Institute that truly made him a controversial figure. In his eyes, the Institute's focus on science and technology was a threat to the traditional values of Torsklander society. He was especially critical of the growing number of female students at the Institute, and was often critical of the Institute's progressive policies, including the enrollment of Ula Rettel-Ungerdjottir, the first female student to enter the university.

Women in Higher Learning
"'Well, I must say, I'm quite taken aback by recent events at the Lardsenn Institute. Just last week, they admitted their first female student into the chemical engineering program. And if that wasn't enough to ruffle my feathers, this Ula Rettel-Ungerdjottir seems determined to make a name for herself on campus.

I've always been of the belief that the Lardsenn Institute was a place for men. A place where they could hone their skills and advance the field of engineering without having to deal with the distractions and emotional outbursts of women. But now, it seems that all of that is about to change.

I understand that there are those who believe in equal opportunities for all, but I simply cannot see how a woman could keep up with the rigorous coursework and demanding workload of the chemical engineering program. And let's not forget the practical aspects of the program, where students are expected to work with heavy machinery and conduct experiments in the lab.

This whole situation smacks of political correctness gone mad. I fear that the admission of Ula Rettel-Ungerdjottir will lead to a lowering of standards at the institute. If women are admitted, what's next? Admitting children and people of different races? Where will it all end?

I'm not against progress, mind you. I'm simply against progress that threatens to undermine the very foundations of our institutions. The Lardsenn Institute has a proud history of producing some of the finest engineers in the land, and I fear that this latest development will only serve to dilute that legacy.

In conclusion, I believe that Ula Rettel-Ungerdjottir is in for a rough ride at the Lardsenn Institute. The rigors of the chemical engineering program will prove to be too much for her, and she will eventually drop out. But even if she does manage to complete the program, I can't see her making much of a contribution to the field. After all, engineering is a man's game, and women simply don't have the aptitude for it.'"

Hulunist Fashion
Dear Readers of the Wikhulla Informer,

As a long-standing observer of Torsklander society, I must say I have never seen a trend spread so rapidly and fervently as this recent infatuation with the fashion and culture of the far-off Four Hulun. It seems as though overnight, all of our noblewomen have thrown off the stout black structured dresses of the past decades in favor of the flowing robes and jackets of the Hulun, with wide sleeves and floral patterns in all colors and styles.

But it's not just the clothing that has changed. No, our women have also taken to using exotic Hulun makeup, with their lips painted black and red, their complexions lightened with white foundation, and their eyes emphasized with dark and smoky eye makeup. It is as if they are trying to emulate the ethereal beauty of the Hulun themselves.

Of course, this influx of Hulun culture into Torskland is not without its roots. The recent establishment of our first real embassy in the city of Hwisong has led to a surge in trade between our two nations, bringing with it journalists and explorers eager to report on the wonders of the Four Hulun.

As a result, we have seen a dramatic shift in Torsklander society, with high society women suddenly eager to embrace all things Hulun. But at what cost? Is it wise to adopt the cultural practices of a nation so vastly different from our own, just because they are fashionable or exotic?

I, for one, am concerned that this infatuation with Hulun culture will lead to a loss of our own Torsklander heritage and identity. We must be cautious not to let our love of the new and unusual blind us to the value of our own traditions and customs." }}
 * multiline=yes
 * author= Olav Stromness
 * title= Wikhulla Informer 13th July 611