Author
Fyodor Sologub
1863-1927
Fyodor Sologub (1863-1927) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Fyodor Sologub
The Created Legend
"The Created Legend" by Fyodor Sologub is a novel written during the early 20th century, likely inspired by the socio-political turbulence of the times. The novel revolves around a stark contrast between the chaos of the external world and the beauty that can be found within imagination and creativity. The story is centered on Elisaveta and Elena, two sisters who explore their surroundings and the philosophical musings prompted by the enigmatic poet Giorgiy Sergeyevitch Trirodov, ultimately facing the quest for personal and artistic liberation against an oppressive reality. The opening of the novel introduces us to the sisters as they delight in a summer's day, bathing in the River Skorodyen. Their conversations provide insight into their world, as they discuss the curious figure of Trirodov, a local scholar shrouded in mystery. As they swim, themes of beauty, vitality, and curiosity about the unknown are established, setting the stage for their intrigue with the extraordinary events that unfold around Trirodov's property. Among the vibrant imagery and philosophical reflections, they encounter curious children and glimpses of a strange society governed by a mix of joy and chaos, alluding to a deeper exploration of innocence, imagination, and the societal unrest of the time. The narrative invites readers to reflect on the line between reality and dreams, and how one's perspective can shape their personal legend.
The Little Demon
"The Little Demon" by Fyodor Sologub is a Symbolist novel published in 1907. In an unnamed Russian provincial town, sadistic schoolteacher Peredonov descends into paranoia and madness while desperately seeking promotion to government inspector. Haunted by a hallucinatory demon called Nedotykomka and consumed by hatred for the world around him, Peredonov embodies evil and banality in this satirical yet deeply symbolic portrait of Russian provincial life. His journey culminates in murder and insanity, creating one of Russian literature's most memorable characters.
The Old House, and Other Tales
"The Old House and Other Tales" by Fyodor Sologub is a collection of short stories likely written in the late 19th century. The tales explore themes of memory, loss, and the inner workings of human emotions, often through fanciful yet realistic narratives. The titular story, "The Old House," delves into the lives of a grieving family, particularly focusing on the character Natasha as she navigates her longing and nostalgic memories of her deceased brother, Borya. The beginning of "The Old House" introduces an old manor where Natasha lives with her mother and grandmother, who are collectively mourning Borya's death. The narrative paints a picture of the house filled with memories and sorrow, detailing the daily lives of the women as they cycle through emotions entwined with both the beauty of nature and the burden of grief. Natasha's hopeful yet painful anticipation of Borya's return creates a poignant atmosphere, setting the stage for the exploration of family bonds and the complexities of memory that permeate the story. The blend of simplicity in their daily routine and the haunting absence of Borya establishes a reflective tone that resonates throughout the opening.
Der kleine Dämon
"Der kleine Dämon" by Fyodor Sologub is a novel written between 1892 and 1902. In a provincial Russian town, gymnasium teacher Peredonov treats those beneath him with cruelty while dreaming of advancement to school inspector. His cousin Varvara manipulates him with forged letters promising connections to a St. Petersburg princess. As paranoia consumes him, Peredonov sees conspiracies everywhere—faces in playing cards, his friend as a threatening ram, and a demonic creature stalking his every step, driving him toward madness and violence.