Two recurring themes underscore the qualities of Grenouille that evoke both admiration and intrigue. One theme employs a metaphor comparing him to an insect, specifically a tick. Similar to a tick that waits in solitude on a branch for the opportune moment to latch onto its prey, Grenouille exhibits traits of being discreet, tenacious, resilient, and resistant. Like the insect, Grenouille is self-sufficient, contributing nothing to the world while enduring hardships in anticipation of a better future. This motif is particularly significant during his arduous apprenticeship with the tanner. The relentless labor leaves him numb, yet it also helps him preserve his inner essence. When he finally has free time, he becomes reacquainted with the scents of Paris. Eventually, Grenouille comprehends the metaphor and realizes why he has clung so tenaciously to life: he believes destiny has ordained him to become the greatest perfumer of all time. However, another aspect of this tick metaphor, his parasitic nature, makes him less admirable. He exploits others as hosts, extracting everything he needs from them.

Grenouille's captivating sensuality and intense self-centeredness often evoke an association with evil, frequently linked to the devil. From the moment of his birth, he is labeled as an abomination, with his wet nurse connecting him to the devil not because he reeks of sulfur, but due to his complete absence of scent. He also walks with a noticeable limp.

Grenouille's lack of desire for security, attention, tenderness, or affection suggests he might be without a soul. He naturally gravitates towards darkness and becomes active during the night. His extraordinary olfactory abilities grant him a reputation for having second sight, a gift commonly tied to misfortune and death. The mysterious killings of twenty-five women are attributed to the work of the devil.