You'll find that The Longing does a good job of pacing the player.

It's best to explore all you can then come back to the game once the time sensitive obstacles have resolved. Probably the most important element of this game is time moves faster the more you explore. You collect a lot of material and knick-knacks for your home. The more you fill your home with stuff, the faster time moves. So yes there is s p e e d tech.

While I do think The Longing is a game that's best experienced as a blind playthrough. There are events that happen on specific days that would be disappointing to miss. Alternative endings, your birthday, meeting a friend. I'd recommend looking at an achievement guide. Those do a good job of showing you all the game has to offer.

I can't promise you'll like the game, but it is a unique experience that will keep you interested for a while.