In "Quicksand," Henning Mankell discusses the fundamental drive for survival that underpins human existence. He emphasizes that our intellectual development is closely linked to this primal instinct. The quest for survival is not just about physical existence but also reflects a deep-seated desire to thrive against all odds.

Mankell illustrates this point through the poignant image of individuals rummaging through garbage, symbolizing the lengths to which people will go to sustain their lives. This stark observation serves as a reminder of the inherent will to live that resides within each person, highlighting the profound connection between survival and our actions in the world.