…that a single person with a reasonably nice standard of living must be in want of a Swedish partner. I don’t claim to be on par with Jane Austen’s prowess with a pen but, if she was writing about love in these 21st century times of political correctness, perhaps her male lead could be found in the heights of Northern Europe.
And rather than bearing a sword and duelling pistol, our newfound amorous hero – let’s call him Mr Svensson – would be holding a duster in one hand and carrying the baby in the other.
“I’ll do everything around the house while I’m on holiday and you’re working,” said my sambo, who is set to embark on his summer vacation while mine will be largely spent in the shade of the computer.
As thankful as I am, my eyes didn’t roll nor did my ears prick up at this declaration of domestic duty.
In the majority of Swedish households that I know, chores are split 50-50. And why not? Most women work and most companies allow the flexibility for either parent to leave the office early and pick up their kids from school or day care.
So while many may think there’s an exodus of foreign men descending on Sweden after winning the heart of a blonde beauty – think again. There’s equally an army of women who love the fact that their Swedish man knows the inner workings of the dishwasher.
A 2009 Oxford University study revealed that Swedish men make the world’s best potential partners, thanks to their egalitarian attitudes and those of the surrounding society.
Yet, a 2010 Demsteader study (completely unofficial and undertaken among a group of five friends over lunch) suggests that Swedish men should not rest on their laundry-time laurels alone.
A quick evaluation revealed that all time equality is celebrated, time-honored chivalry takes a backseat in Sweden. “Ladies first” is a forgotten trait and the gallant act of opening of a door is practically dead these days.
Seems to be somewhat of a lose-lose situation for the average Mr Svensson after all. But give me a clean bathroom rather than a bunch of roses any day. I say Sweden’s men should keep mopping with pride and without prejudice.
