The diary of a superfluous man, and other stories

by Ivan Sergeevich Turgenev

"The Diary of a Superfluous Man and Other Stories" by Ivan Sergeevich Turgenev is a collection of short stories written in the mid-19th century. Centering on themes of existential ennui and societal critique, the titular story introduces Tchulkatúrin, a man confronting his own superfluity and alienation in Russian society. This collection delves into the emotional and psychological landscapes of its characters, reflecting on the depths of human experience and the complexities of love and life. At the start of the titular story, we meet Tchulkatúrin, who begins his diary anticipating his imminent death. He reflects on his past and the feelings of uselessness that have defined his existence. His upbringing in a dysfunctional family—marked by a father’s gambling addiction and a mother’s oppressive virtue—shapes his perceptions of relationships and life. As he revisits the memories of his youth, he grapples with feelings of inadequacy and longing, setting the stage for a profound exploration of identity in a society that seems indifferent to his struggles. Tchulkatúrin's musings reveal the depth of his melancholy, leading readers into a contemplative narrative about what it means to feel superfluous.