In Henning Mankell's novel "The Fifth Woman," the analogy of a criminal investigation to a construction site highlights the importance of following established procedures. Just as a building requires a solid foundation and orderly construction to ensure its stability, effective investigations must adhere to systematic methods to yield valid results. This comparison emphasizes the meticulous nature of law enforcement work and the need for thoroughness at each step.

Mankell's metaphor suggests that neglecting any part of the investigative process can lead to weak conclusions, akin to a poorly built structure that can collapse. For detectives, following the correct sequence of actions not only influences the outcome of individual cases but also upholds the integrity of the justice system as a whole. This insight serves as a reminder of the crucial role of methodical practices in unraveling complex criminal scenarios.