Responses to "Do you think Qwilleran has too much power in Moose County? If so, do you think he abuses it?" [suggested by Joël]:

Eileen

I think that, up to this point, Qwilleran has been careful not to "throw his weight around" in Moose County. Every time someone brings up his association with the Klingenschoen Foundation (from which his power is derived) he avoids discussing it and refers to the Foundation's board of directors as its real administrative power. I hope Braun keeps him that way.

Laura & Roy

I will acknowledge that Qwill has quite a bit of power in Moose County. And I think that it was a clever move to establish the "K Fund" to benefit Moose County. But abuse it?! This is Qwill we're talking about. The man who drives a used car, buys used books, and eats Macaroni and Cheese! Even his beautiful apple barn was renovated more for the Siamese than for the man himself. The biggest pleasure that his money gives him is that he can now follow his generous nature. I think his power is well deserved, and the only thing oversize about the man is his moustache (as compared to his ego).

Ann

Yes, I think Qwill has "too much" power in Moose County, primarily thru the Klingenschoen fortune; certainly a man who has set up the present newspaper, theater, library, and numerous scholarships and community loans would wield an enormous amount of influence. No, I don't believe Qwill really abuses it, aside from a natural curiosity about people, and honest concern for real problems. The "abuse" might be result of his sticking his nose in too many places, but what can you expect from a man who keeps tripping over dead bodies? I think by now Qwill is a bit too prominent, and Moose County too gentrified, but that's not really abuse. Compare Pickax to its antithesis--the dreary town of Pottersville from Capra's It's A Wonderful Life --and there is no comparsion, Qwill is quite the reverse of the sullen Banker Potter. Of course, if Qwilleran ever got an idea along corrupt lines I am certain Koko would straighten him out in a hurry!

Peggy

I say No.
He has respect, not power. He turned over his fortune to the K Fund to disperse throughout the community...he gave them his power. He wants a simple life with Koko and Yum Yum, good friends and good food...plus his column and an occasional murder to solve. He has it all.

Simchah

I do think he has too much power, even though it seems he's done as much as possible to get rid of it, just by virtue of having all that $$ at his disposal. Even though the K fund is theoretically out of his hands, all his "suggestions" seem to be carried out without question.
No abuse, but the temptation must be enormous. I know it would be for me.



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