The Moomin Strategy for Living with Uncertainty

Maria Popova writes in The Marginalian that Tove Jansson’s beloved character Too‑ticky serves as a quiet guide to living with uncertainty. In the 1957 book Moominland Midwinter, Too‑ticky comforts the impatient Moomintroll with lines like “All things are so very uncertain, and that’s exactly what makes me feel reassured.” The essay links the sage’s philosophy to Jansson’s own life – her partnership with sculptor Tuulikki Pietilä and her decision to build a creative world outside Disney’s reach. As The Marginalian explains, the character’s blend of practical advice and minimalist living invites readers to accept the unknown rather than rush through it. Those curious about her calm wisdom can find it throughout Jansson’s Moomin stories.

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