Essay Questions

What is the connection between Ove and rules?

Time and again, we see Ove's character doing his best to reinforce rules and regulations where he possibly can. It is to be noted that Ove does not particularly care about the specific rules themselves but instead attempts to maintain a sense of order by trying to uphold the rules. This is because of his concern about having a sense of control wherever possible order and rules help him feel in control regardless of how out of control life seem otherwise.

Who is 'Blond Weed' in the novel?

'Blond Weed' is Ander's girlfriend. She is referred to as 'Blond Weed' because Ove never gets to learn her name, instead giving a self-invented nickname based on her physical appearance- blond hair and tall in stature. We see from the beginning that Ove does not have a cordial relationship with her, mainly because her dog Prince is often found urinating on Ove's driveway. Later we come to see the truly cruel nature of Blond Weed when we find her harming the cat as well as letting her dog fight with the cat as well.

What do the white shirts signify in the novel?

'White Shirts' are something that is seen throughout the story and each time, white shirts seem to signify mainly negative situations for Ove.

We see it first when Ove tries to save his childhood house from burning down, only to be stopped by men wearing white shirts. Then again Ove faces men in white shirts, relaying news of his wife's health deteriorating. Though these "men in white shirts" do not have individual characteristics to them, they do share the commonality of being bureaucrats and that being unsympathetic being who've lost touch with compassion over time.

Despite white shirts symbolizing mainly negativity for Ove, the fact that he still saves a man in white from a rushing train goes to show his own compassion and character depth.