I compiled a list of big and small headcanons I like to implement in my work when writing Sweden's character! More may be added if I come up with them. Feel free to steal them in your own work
Read the whole list under the cut!
Physical Features
Sweden is one of the tallest nations at around 2,00 m / 6′ 7″. He has a heavy build with notable muscles on his upper body. Though, he gets bloated very easily, especially after a heavy meal, so his body definition varies a lot.
Sweden is physically in his early to mid-thirties.
As a teenager, Swe usually experienced nausea and dizziness from growing pains. Definitely didn't help with his already bad temper and moodiness.
Sweden has cold hands constantly.
He tans quite easily during summer. In his youth, he had visible sun freckles.
He's not as fit as people might think at first. His grip is firm, and he can lift. But make him run stairs, and he's out of breath. That is probably why you'll never catch him running - even in a hurry.
Swe has frown lines on his forehead and around his eyes, probably due to squinting so much before getting his glasses.
He has a small silver cross necklace, which he obtained from his long travels in his youth.
Personality
Sweden is stoic, but he's not that serious - even though he might appear to be so. He just has an unfortunate face, according to Denmark. Norway says Sweden is friendly; he doesn't act like it. Swe has a playful side to him, and even he isn't above banter from time to time. He is even a bit sassy. And while he might be a man of a few words, he has a sense of comedic timing. He often manages to make his friends crack up in inappropriate situations, and people never believe them it was due to Sweden.
Sweden has an eye for quality. He's also a bit frugal and refuses to throw stuff away, especially if he could fix it with little effort or repurpose it for something else. For most of his life, he had to deal with limited resources anyway, so his thrifty tendencies continue to this day. People tease that Sweden prefers crisp bread (knäckebröd) because he's too frugal to bake fresh bread every day
He is known to be innovative! He'll ponder his head empty to devise a solution to a given topic, and sometimes, they can be pretty creative and unexpected. He has a lot of fantastical creativity, and his thinking process is a big mystery to everyone else.
He cherishes silence and personal space. Loud noises and massive crowds of people make him very uncomfortable, so he avoids situations like that beforehand.
Sweden takes things very literally at times, and he can take things to heart. He'll always go out of his way to do his best and put on the best show, down to a single detail. If someone requests a cake with flowers, he'll spend the entire night crafting marzipan daisies and placing them individually
Sweden could be described as somewhat of a control freak. He'll get highly anxious if he's not in control and making decisions - or kept in the dark about matters that concern him. He has always been self-driven, and he can become quite rowdy if he's forced to follow other's orders.
Sweden is a bit of a mother hen, taking care of people and providing for them at all times. Though sometimes, he takes this role a bit too seriously. Sweden has a tendency to get involved even in other people's business and try to come up with solutions for their problems, which his neighbors don't always appreciate.
Because of his rational and calm nature, people often seek Sweden's advice and help. Well, at least people who don't have to deal with his unprompted advice constantly.
He has always struggled with being a bit selfish. Not that he lacks the skills to share or be empathetic, but he always seems to put himself first. People often need to adjust to Sweden's comfort and needs rather than the other way around.
He's definitely the most family-oriented out of the Nordics. He has always wanted to be a parent, even if others never really understood it. Even as a teen, he would look after the youngest members of his family, ensuring they were clothed and fed.
Even though he's not very sociable, he hates being alone for long periods of time. Since he has always lived with others, he wants life, color, and chatter in his home. That's why he has arranged a free "open door" policy in his house. His family (and adoptees) are welcome in his place at any time
But, even though Sweden is tolerant and welcoming, it sometimes might backfire on him if his visitors aren't too caring. Denmark and Finland are particularly good at this and leave the place messier than they found it. Meanwhile, Norway empties Sweden's fridge and pantry before he's on his way (which he just calls harrytur). Sweden is non-confrontational and rarely dares to bring it up, though.
He finds work-life balance extremely important. He takes his job seriously, but when the clock hits 4 p.m., he's already out of the door. This can annoy his overachieving coworkers sometimes, but this is a subject Sweden just won't give in. He is highly productive and a hard worker - it just happens strictly during office hours. He remembers to unwind by taking a week off at a cabin or simply having coffee breaks multiple times a day.
Swe sticks to schedules and usually shows up early to be on time. He's punctual and expects things to be done on time with efficiency. Swe has a personal calendar that he follows, and events, such as dinners, need to be planned in advance with him. He also follows a tight sleeping schedule.
Sweden is candid and answers others' questions bluntly. Interviews are a nightmare with him. Small talk is difficult with him, and he'll stay quiet if he has nothing to say.
Sweden expects honesty. He wants to know if he has upset someone and, in return, wants to talk things out. Resentments, petty disagreements, and gossip annoy him greatly, especially if the other person expects him to recognize when he has done something wrong.
Sweden doesn't feel that awkward in social situations unless he can tell the other person is finding his silence uncomfortable. Swe becomes more shy and uneasy if he has to fake small talk. You'll get the most out of him when you bear his silent breaks.
Sweden can come off as nitpicky or even snobbish; he cares about the little details and, in true artistic fashion, can be a perfectionist sometimes. Whenever he's nervous, he starts focusing and fixing the tiniest of details in his work.
Sweden has a lot of confidence in himself and his abilities. Maybe, at times, a little bit too much, which makes him proud. Especially in his youth, he considered himself invincible and constantly overestimated his capabilities.
His tendency to be taciturn and not talk about his problems puts him at odds with people around him. Usually, the issues build up when he refuses to confront them. Combining this with the fact that he believes himself to be in the right - and solving issues with pure logic, it seems like he forgets to consider the emotional side of things. He can't understand why others don't see the world rationally like he does.
Hobbies
Sweden has a workshop in his house where he likes to go and work on DIY projects, make various crafts, or fix broken items. In there, he could spend hours pondering and trying to find solutions to problems - not only on broken appliances but his personal issues as well. Also, the workshop offers Swe a form of escapism. It's his domain, where he prefers to be alone (His little snickerboa, if you will)
Handicrafts allow him to express himself and carry out his wild creativity and imagination. He takes pride in his art; every item is made with love and thought. Besides making furniture, Swe is skilled in glass crafts. Sweden is also a skilled artist. Though it's more of a hidden talent. People never see him draw, but if you get him a pen and paper with a basic prompt, he will draw like a professional. He paints Christmas cards every year and sends them to other Nations.
Sweden is quite active and tries to get himself moving through everyday activities, such as house chores, biking, or even just taking the stairs. He likes going on long city hikes and can play a football or ice hockey match if asked to. But nowadays, he has begun to enjoy more relaxed sports, such as golf.
He loves cooking; Swe appreciates and values quality food. Perhaps he's not a culinary chef, but he can make any comfort homemade food if asked. Sweden is consistently in charge of the food in get-togethers and family gatherings. He's also a great baker but doesn't have time to focus on that hobby. Nevertheless, he always ensures at least a few types of cookies, buns, or other pastries are available. It's important to take a break occasionally and sit down for a cup of coffee.
Sweden enjoys a variety of music. He hasn't really mastered any instrument, but he loves singing group songs at events. He considers music a big part of his life, and he really enjoys musical events.
He is a plant mom with thriving houseplants all over his residence. Iceland is jealous of him because his own houseplants seem to always die as soon as he attains them. Sweden also has an impressive outdoor garden during the summer.
Sweden is obsessed with crime shows and literature; he's always in the process of reading the newest thriller books.
Lifestyle
His human name is Björn. His nickname "Nalle" (teddybear) can be used as a term of endearment - or annoyance, depending on the person and context. Though he has had multiple names throughout his life, such as Berwald.
Sweden is skilled in mental math, though not in a "superhuman" way. Sweden is an experienced merchant and builder who can solve basic math problems immediately in his head. He's definitely more talented mathematically rather than linguistically.
Sweden feels the most at peace when he's prepared for the future. Even on vacations, he'll fix his porch, paint the house, or do massive spring cleaning. On cabin weekends, he'll maintain the boat or drive the other Nordics crazy for using the lawnmower early in the morning
He's a recycling freak who takes the matter very seriously. He'll definitely let you know if you have done your recycling wrong and scold you for it
Despite his quiet and seemingly shy nature, Sweden likes hosting parties and events. He can even give a short speech if he's allowed to prepare for that beforehand. Swe doesn't go from table to table chatting with people. Instead, he'll ensure there are activities, games, music, and enough food and drinks for everyone.
Sweden has a tendency to socialize through activities like games or quizzes. People groan when Sweden has to bring yet another board game to a party, but that's just his way of ensuring people have something to do. And if he doesn't have a particular activity to participate in, he might just sit in silence the whole time!
Swe can handle booze very well, only becoming talkative. While he's reserved and quiet sober, he bubbles up immediately after a drink or two. Usually regretting his loud mouth the next day.
Swe has always had a hard time learning second languages, which is one of the reasons why he appears so quiet. When he can speak his native language, he's way more talkative. He often forgets words when talking in different languages, and that's when his insecurities and nervousness take over.
He speaks Swedish and will hesitantly admit that he understands Norwegian and some Danish just fine due to their long relationship and exposure to each other's languages. He speaks English and used to speak French and (Low) German. He also used to know Latin and Old Norse but has forgotten them both.
Swe thinks rules are rules, and in his household, candy can only be eaten on Saturdays.
Sweden has an inherent sense of style, perhaps due to his tendency to care about the little details. He wants his home and personal style to look nice and put together, and he spends a lot of time focusing on them.
Due to his big size, many spaces aren't made for him, especially abroad. He finds it embarrassing when other people notice this and try to offer him special treatment because of it. He hates to cause extra trouble.
He experiences "sunshine guilt" very often. If it's a beautiful day outside, Sweden can't sit inside without feeling guilty, like he's wasting his time. He will often tell people to go outside and appreciate the short summer that they get. And when the first rays of sunshine appear in spring, Swe might drop whatever he's doing and face the sun with his eyes closed - just taking it all in and immediately feeling better. He also starts having picnics and hanging out in outdoor cafes early in the year, regardless of weather or temperature.
Sweden has calmed down immensely from his youth to the point some consider he has gone soft, acting like an old man with no ambitions. But maybe nowadays, he puts in the effort to enjoy the things he values in life. And as a result, he's pretty content with how things are going for him.
My king, I humbly present you my request; SuFin being happy and loving 🙏 it's okay if you don't want to do it though, i know your not the biggest shipper
No please, it's a totally fine request. I saw quite a few people requesting ship content anyway <3 I wanted to properly finish this piece, but aah, I'm on the go and won't be bringing my drawing supplies. Colored sketch it is!
I need someone to infodump their characterization headcanons for hws Norway. I'm trying to incorporate them into this fic but my opinion on the character is lukewarm so my headcanons are not very fleshed out.
I repeat: this is an open invitation for Norway fans to please infodump about headcanons. preferably Viking Age headcanons but in general will do too.
1. This isn’t so much headcanon, but Nor is canonically a very mischievous guy with a wry sense of humor! He does have a pretty flat affect though which is why I think some people characterize him as being rude/sarcastic/etc. In my own writing and daydreaming he has a bit of a dirty sense of humor and always has a quick and witty comeback.
2. He’s schizoaffective! This is 99.99% me just projecting on him, and 0.01% actual headcanon, but he has schizoaffective unipolar depression. Hence the seeing things, social detachment, flat affect, etc. Pre-Christianization he would have been regarded as a seer or have some other kind of spiritual role. During the Middle Ages up until probably the 1900s, seeing things and acting strange would mark him either as a witch or insane, so he and his government tried his best to hide the worst of his symptoms. In the sixties he got on chlorpromazine and has been on it ever since.
3. Tangent from the Thorazine- He’s actually a little on the chunky side lol. Between taking heavy duty psych meds for decades, a cold climate, and a sweet tooth, my boy’s a little soft around the edges. This may also be projection.
4. He’s obviously resentful about his people and culture being subjugated and suppressed while under Danish or Swedish rule. So even though I think he got along with both Denmark and Sweden as individuals pre-1400s, from the Kalmar Union onwards he was very(and rightfully!) hateful towards both of them until finally gaining independence in the early 1900s. IDK how much you know about Scandinavian history but The Kalmar Union, Denmark-Norway, and Sweden-Norway were not equal partnerships.
4. Pre-1200s, my boy was WILD!!! It’s important to remember that while in reality being a Viking was a profession and didn’t define the entire culture…. Nor was crazy lol. High on henbane half the time, did his fair share of pillaging, would fight or fuck anything that moved. He and Den got up to some serious trouble together 😈😈😈 I’m a dedicated DenNor shipper but even in a platonic and purely historical context those two were troublemakers lol.
5. He is very very family oriented, and if you’re not in that circle, he really doesn’t give a fuck about you. Den, Ice, Sve, and Fin(plus some autonomous territories like the Faroes, Greenland, etc) are the ONLY people he gives a shit about. The rest of the world can burn as long as he has his family. He’s very protective of his baby brother 🥹 He’s actually pretty hurt when Ice shoves him away, says not to call him “little brother”, etc even though he understands that he’s not being too serious and he’s just an angsty teenager.
6. In a stark contrast to the rest of the Nordics, except for a few ski trips a year, he’s very indoorsy! His logic being that he spent most of his childhood cold and miserable outside, and is VERY appreciative of modern technology. Why would he go outside when he can curl up with a book in his insulated, heated home with running water, fresh food, and a memory foam mattress? Sleeping bags? Absolutely not.
7. He likes to be annoying. Poking you, standing right behind you when you’re cooking, making little noises, teasing you, stealing your snacks, taking up all the space in bed- he’s just a butthead for the sake of being a butthead. It’s somehow endearing because it’s him. Sve and Ice usually stonewall him when he does this, but Den and Fin will poke right back and it usually ends with wrestling lol.
8. Appearance-wise, he’s close to average height(6’1” or 185cm), kind of chubby like I said, with gray-blue eyes and wavy light blond hair. He straightens it most of the time but struggles with the shorter pieces around his neck, so they keep a bit of curl. He has a pretty androgynous appearance owing in part to good grooming and his inability to grow a beard. He likes to wear ugly cable knit sweaters and black or khaki pants, and adds variety to his appearance with accessories like hairpins, rings, a hint of eyeliner, etc. He looks to be in his mid-late thirties. He has a lot of the typical battle scars you’d expect on a nation but nothing particularly noteworthy. He does have a pretty beautiful patchy hypopigmented birthmark all along his right flank representing the fjords. When he was younger(Viking-era) he kept his hair long and braided shiny objects into it, usually shiny objects that were directly lifted from the recently deceased at his hand.
9. His name- for me it’s Lukas Haralds(s)on. Sorry, i don’t know if it’s one S or two. I like his canon first name Lukas because Den can call him “Lu” or “Lu-Lu” :3 Haraldsen comes from Harald, first king of united Norway, which makes him the closest thing Lukas has to a dad.
Side note: if you’re of the DenNor persuasion, they have rough sex lolllll they’ve been fucking nasty since the 900s and even if they hated each other a few times, you can’t hate someone that much without loving them first uwu
An Archive of Our Own, a project of the Organization for Transformative Works
Chapters: 1/1
Fandom: Hetalia: Axis Powers
Rating: General Audiences
Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply
Relationships: Lithuania/Poland (Hetalia), but it's not about them - Relationship
Characters: Original Female Character(s), Belgium (Hetalia), Luxembourg (Hetalia), Netherlands (Hetalia), Canada (Hetalia), America (Hetalia), Lithuania (Hetalia), Poland (Hetalia)
Additional Tags: POV First Person, Ficlet, Worldbuilding, Coffee Shops, Hetalia Countries Using Human Names
Summary:
I work at a coffee shop on the ground floor of the United Nations headquarters in Geneva, and I've noticed some strange people hanging around.
LJFKAJFKANCOSNCJSJFB as a nurse myself I am OBSESSED!!!! And of COURSE ER nurse Nor is fuckin Den the EMT lmao, it’s just how it has to be. Also same @ Icey, nothing will drain your soul faster than a 12 hour “clinical” where really you’re just an unpaid tech.
Gotta avoid the 3 Ps: Paramedics, Police, and Pfirefighters
gummygunk
dailybridgerton
origamiaround
2087
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