Olof Persson, a young man played by Eddie Axberg, begins his journey in a small Swedish town during a period of social and economic upheaval. When his father falls seriously ill, Olof takes on various working-class jobs to support his family, starting with log driving. During this time, he encounters a man named Allan Edwall, who shares stories about death and loss, including a haunting tale involving his wife chasing their twin sons, both of whom have now passed away. These stories leave a deep impression on Olof, prompting him to reflect on mortality and the fragility of life.
As Olof's father passes away, his father’s old friend, Max von Sydow, known as Smålands-Pelle, speaks warmly of the past, reminiscing about their shared memories. Afterwards, Olof finds work in a sawmill, where the harsh realities of labor and the brutal efforts of the working class are evident. The workers gather in the mill, exchanging stories about women, but tensions rise when some harass Olof, highlighting the struggles and social conflicts of the era. Outside of the mill, Olof works alongside a boy named Oskar, with whom he transports logs. Tragically, Oskar suffers a fatal injury when a falling log strikes him, leading to his death in the hospital. Deeply affected by the incident, Olof seeks a promotion at the sawmill but is denied, prompting him to seek new ways of understanding the world.
During this period, Olof immerses himself in literature, reading novels and philosophy, which broadens his perspectives. Seeking change, he leaves his job at the sawmill and takes a position at a local cinema, where he is involved in selling candy. In the cinema, he meets the eccentric owner, played by Gunnar Björnstrand, who explains the duties of the job and hints at future promotions to a projectionist. During this time, Olof becomes interested in a girl named Maria, played by Signe Stade, though he later observes her with another boy. He befriends a boy named Fredrik, with whom he discusses books, philosophy, and the ideas of social change, exploring themes of hope and disillusionment.
Olof's life takes a turn when he joins touring with a projectionist named Mr. Larsson, played by Åke Fridell, and travels with a circus. While touring, Olof meets Olivia, portrayed by Ulla Sjöblom, a captivating figure running a traveling shooting gallery. He begins a romantic relationship with Olivia but eventually they part ways, deepening his sense of loneliness and searching for meaning. Between tours, Olof visits home and becomes involved in socialist meetings, passionately writing poetry about his ideals. This activism draws the ire of his boss at the cinema, leading him to quit that job as well.
Olof's restless quest for purpose leads him to work for the railway company, where he finds comrades in Per Oscarsson, with whom he shares strong socialist beliefs. They stand against capitalist structures, openly criticizing their employer, Bengt Ekerot. Olof also shows compassion for the homeless, sparing food for hobos on the train, and actively leads discussions at communist gatherings. During a lively party, Olof gets overwhelmed by alcohol, falling ill and vomiting, which symbolizes his internal struggles.
In the final phases of his journey, a poignant scene echoes the opening, featuring a bird flying—a symbolic reminder of hope and freedom—accompanied by the film’s characteristic music. Olof returns to his foster mother, played by Gudrun Brost, before setting out once more. The film concludes with Olof walking along snow-covered railroad tracks, a symbolic scene representing both the end of his journey and the uncertain path that lies ahead. As he moves forward, he carries the weight of his experiences, ideals, and the enduring hope for a better future, walking into whatever comes next with quiet determination.
