Aksel Sandemose, the notable Danish-Norwegian writer, expressed that the central themes of writing are love and murder, which encapsulate profound human experiences. This notion highlights the emotional depth and conflict often found in literature, suggesting that such intense subjects resonate most with readers. Love encompasses the complexity of relationships, while murder examines the darker sides of humanity, making them compelling themes for exploration.

In "An Event in Autumn," a mystery by Henning Mankell featuring the detective Kurt Wallander, these themes may intertwine as the narrative unfolds. Wallander's investigations often bring him into contact with deep-seated human emotions and moral dilemmas linked to love and violence. Mankell's work embodies Sandemose's perspective, as it reveals the intricacies of human nature against the backdrop of crime and personal relationships.