The White Dog by Fyodor Sologub
The novel revolves around a young boy who befriends a white dog that has been abandoned by its previous owner. The boy's relationship with the dog deepens as he learns about its past and the circumstances surrounding its abandonment. As the story unfolds, the boy becomes increasingly obsessed with the dog, which leads to a series of events that challenge his perception of reality. The novel explores themes of loneliness, isolation, and the complexities of human relationships. The narrative is characterized by a dreamlike quality, blurring the lines between reality and fantasy. The author's use of symbolism and imagery adds depth to the story, inviting readers to interpret the meaning behind the events that unfold. Ultimately, the novel raises questions about the nature of identity, morality, and the human condition.
By Fyodor Sologub · First published 1906 · Genre: Psychological Fiction, Symbolism, Magical Realism · 2,401 words
First lines
Everything grew irksome for Alexandra Ivanovna in the workshop of this out-of-the-way town -- the patterns, the clatter of machines, the complaints of the customers; it was the shop in which she had served as apprentice and now for several years as cutter. Everything irritated Alexandra Ivanovna; she quarrelled with everyone and abused the innocent apprentices. Among others to suffer from her outbursts of temper was Tanechka, the youngest of the seamstresses, who only lately had been an apprentice. In the beginning Tanechka submitted to her abuse in silence. In the end she revolted, and, addressing herself to her assailant, said, quite calmly and affably, so that everyone laughed:
Similar titles
- Light And Shadows by Fyodor Sologub
- The Hoop by Fyodor Sologub
- The Little Demon by Fyodor Sologub
- Hide And Seek by Fyodor Sologub
- The Smile by Fyodor Sologub
- The Delicate Child by Fyodor Sologub
Genres
- Psychological Fiction — The narrative delves deeply into the characters' inner thoughts and emotions, particularly Alexandra Ivanovna's psychological turmoil and identity crisis.
- Symbolism — The white dog serves as a powerful symbol of transformation and the struggle between human and animal instincts, reflecting deeper themes of identity and societal roles.
- Magical Realism — The blending of the ordinary with the extraordinary, particularly in the transformation of the dog into a woman, creates a surreal atmosphere that challenges reality.
- Social Commentary — The story critiques social hierarchies and the dynamics of power and abuse within a workplace setting, highlighting the struggles of women in a patriarchal society.
Tags
Russian Literature · Symbolism · Psychological Fiction · Philosophical Themes · Existentialism · Absurdism · Social Commentary · Critique of Society · Morality Play · Coming of Age · Identity Crisis · Alienation
What this Textopian page supports
The White Dog is listed on Textopian as a short story by Fyodor Sologub, dated 1906 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: 1906 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Psychological Fiction, Symbolism, Magical Realism, Social Commentary, Gothic Fiction
- Length: 2,401 words
- Structure: 1 section, 66 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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- Work identity for The White Dog by Fyodor Sologub
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
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