The diary of a superfluous man, and other stories

by Ivan Sergeevich Turgenev

"The Diary of a Superfluous Man" by Ivan Sergeevich Turgenev is a collection of semi-autobiographical stories written during the late 19th century. The central narrative follows the life of the main character, Tchulkaturin, as he grapples with his impending death and reflects on his own existence and perceived uselessness in society. At the start of the story, we meet Tchulkaturin, a man who is near death and begins writing a diary to explore his past and feelings. He delves into his family life, discussing his father's gambling issues and his mother's virtuous but stifling demeanor. Tchulkaturin describes his upbringing and his feelings of inadequacy, labeling himself as "superfluous." As he recounts anecdotes about his childhood, his relationships, and his emotional struggles, he reveals a complex character marked by feelings of joy and despair, particularly regarding his unrequited love for Liza, a charming girl he encounters later in his life. The opening lays a foundation for deep existential musings, highlighting themes of love, identity, and the human condition.