The Glimmer of Hunger
The novel explores the themes of existentialism and nihilism through the protagonist's struggles with morality and spirituality. It is set in a decaying aristocratic household where the characters are trapped by their own decadence and moral bankruptcy. The story revolves around the protagonist's inner turmoil as he grapples with his own desires and the emptiness of his surroundings.
By Fyodor Sologub · First published 1908 · Genre: Psychological Fiction, Social Commentary, Literary Fiction · 3,505 words
First lines
The Glimmer of Hunger
Sergei Matveyevich Moshkin had dined very well that day -- that is comparatively well -- when you stop to consider that he was only a village schoolmaster who had lost his place, and had been knocking about already a year or so on strange stairways, in search of work. Nevertheless, the glimmer of hunger persisted in his dark, sad eyes, and it gave his lean, smooth face a kind of unlooked-for significance.
What this Textopian page supports
The Glimmer of Hunger is listed on Textopian as a novel by Fyodor Sologub, dated 1908 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Novel
- Author: Fyodor Sologub
- Date: 1908 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Psychological Fiction, Social Commentary, Literary Fiction, Tragedy, Dark Comedy
- Length: 3,505 words
- Structure: 1 section, 117 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Glimmer of Hunger 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 Glimmer of Hunger?
- How does this novel by Fyodor Sologub fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Psychological Fiction first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- The White Mother by Fyodor Sologub
- The Search by Fyodor Sologub
- The Wardrobe by Guy De Maupassant
- The Independent Leaves by Fyodor Sologub
- The Old House by Fyodor Sologub
- The Hoop by Fyodor Sologub
Genres
- Psychological Fiction — The narrative delves deeply into the protagonist's inner thoughts and emotions, exploring themes of despair, hunger, and existential angst.
- Social Commentary — The story critiques societal structures, particularly the struggles of the lower class and the impact of poverty on human behavior.
- Literary Fiction — The writing style is rich and nuanced, focusing on character development and thematic depth rather than plot-driven action.
- Tragedy — The protagonist's journey is marked by suffering and a sense of inevitable downfall, culminating in a tragic conclusion.
Tags
Russian Literature · Symbolism · Psychological Fiction · Philosophical Themes · Existential Crisis · Inner Turmoil · Social Commentary · Critique of Bourgeoisie · Decadence · Morality · Ethics · Identity Crisis