Snufkin might be one of the best written characters of the 20th century

You know, I feel like Snufkin doesn't get enough attention. Maybe it's just me getting older, but I grew up with the 90s Moomin anime on VHS, and it was a huge part of my childhood. After rewatching it, plus the 60s and 70s versions as well as reading some of the books, I'm convinced Snufkin is one of the most genuine characters out there in kids' media.

For starters, Snufkin is actually inspired by Tove Jansson's former fiancé, Atos Wirtanen, and also reflects Tove herself, particularly her love for nature and her independent spirit. Snufkin actually says in one episode of the 90s anime that "Traveling is all I've known," and he plans to keep doing it. Snufkin is the kind of character you have to dig a little deeper to understand and read in between the lines, and I think that's what makes him so captivating. His strong need for independence sometimes seems to overshadow his concern for others. For example, when Teety-Woo asks him when he'll be back in the valley, Snufkin gets annoyed and says maybe he has "somewhere else to visit instead." It amazes me how Tove managed to write such a deep-rooted character, and despite over 13 years of my Moomin knowledge (lol), he continues to pleasantly surprise me as a character. 

To be fair, I just made this blog to praise Snufkin's character.

Anyway any 2025 Moomin fans hmu lol