The Candles by Fyodor Sologub (1903)
The novel revolves around the life of a young woman who lives with her family in a rural town. She is struggling to maintain her innocence and purity amidst the corrupting influences of her surroundings. As she navigates her relationships with her family members, particularly her father, she begins to question the morality and values that have been instilled in her. The novel explores themes of morality, innocence, and the struggle between good and evil.
By Fyodor Sologub · First published 1903 · Genre: Symbolism, Surrealism, Existentialism · 225 words
First lines
The Candles
There were two candles burning, and many lamps along the walls. A man was reading from an exercise-book, and others were silent and listened.
The flames trembled. The candles also listened -- they liked listening; but there was a draught from somewhere, and they trembled.
The man finished. The candles were blown out and the people went away.
What this Textopian page supports
The Candles is listed on Textopian as a short story by Fyodor Sologub, dated 1903 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Fyodor Sologub
- Date: 1903 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Symbolism, Surrealism, Existentialism, Gothic, Literary Fiction
- Length: 225 words
- Structure: 1 section, 9 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Candles by Fyodor Sologub
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering The Candles?
- How does this short story by Fyodor Sologub fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Symbolism first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- The White Mother by Fyodor Sologub
- The Lady In Fetters by Fyodor Sologub
- The Independent Leaves by Fyodor Sologub
- The Keys by Fyodor Sologub
- The Crimson Ribbon by Fyodor Sologub
- The Kiss Of The Unborn by Fyodor Sologub
Genres
- Symbolism — The use of candles as symbols of life, death, and the passage of time reflects deeper meanings and emotions.
- Surrealism — The blending of reality and dream-like elements creates an atmosphere that challenges conventional perceptions.
- Existentialism — Themes of existence, the cyclical nature of life, and the human condition are central to the narrative.
- Gothic — The somber tone, themes of death, and the eerie atmosphere contribute to a gothic sensibility.
Tags
Russian Literature · Symbolism · Psychological Fiction · Philosophical Themes · Existential Crisis · Inner Turmoil · Mental Illness · Isolation · Loneliness · Despair · Hopelessness · Dark Fantasy