In "The Man Who Smiled" by Henning Mankell, the character Kurt Wallander reflects on the unique tranquility that seems to characterize the lives of wealthy individuals. This insight suggests that their financial status not only affords them material comforts but also creates a serene environment that is often unattainable for others. Wallander's observation sparks a deeper contemplation about the relationship between wealth and personal peace.

This thought highlights the broader themes in the novel regarding socioeconomic disparities and the impact they have on daily life. It raises questions about the nature of happiness and contentment, suggesting that tranquility may be a privilege of the affluent, while those less fortunate often navigate a more chaotic existence. Wallander's musings on this subject reflect a critical awareness of society's inequalities.