A Goodly Life by Ivan Bunin (1900)
The novel revolves around the life of a Russian aristocrat who has lost his faith and sense of purpose after the Russian Revolution. He embarks on a journey to rediscover himself and find meaning in a world that has been turned upside down. As he travels through Europe, he encounters various characters who challenge his views and force him to confront the reality of his own existence. Along the way, he grapples with themes of identity, morality, and the human condition. The novel is a poignant exploration of the decline of the old aristocracy and the search for meaning in a post-revolutionary world. Through its protagonist's struggles, it raises questions about the nature of good and evil, and whether it is possible to live a virtuous life in a world that seems to have lost its moral compass. Ultimately, the novel presents a nuanced and thought-provoking portrayal of a man struggling to come to terms with his place in the world.
By Ivan Bunin · First published 1900 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Philosophical Fiction, Historical Fiction · 15,126 words
First lines
My life has been a well-spent one; I got everything I went after. I even own real property -- my little old man right after the wedding signed the house over in my name; and I keep horses, and two cows, and we have a business all our own. Of course, not a regular shop, now, but just a little store, as they say -- but then, in our village, it will pass. I always was successful, but then I have a persistent character, at that.
As to all sorts of work, it was still my daddy that learned me. Though he was a widower, and took to drink, he wasn't far behind me in being awful smart, businesslike, and heartless. When the serfs was freed, now, he up and says to me:
What this Textopian page supports
A Goodly Life is listed on Textopian as a novel by Ivan Bunin, dated 1900 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Novel
- Author: Ivan Bunin
- Date: 1900 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Literary Fiction, Philosophical Fiction, Historical Fiction, Autobiographical Fiction, Drama
- Length: 15,126 words
- Structure: 1 section, 172 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
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- Work identity for A Goodly Life by Ivan Bunin
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Literary Fiction — The work focuses on character development, emotional depth, and explores complex themes of life and existence.
- Philosophical Fiction — It delves into existential questions and the nature of human experience.
- Historical Fiction — The narrative is set against a backdrop of historical events, reflecting the cultural and social context of the time.
- Autobiographical Fiction — Elements of the author's life and personal experiences are woven into the narrative.
Tags
Russian Literature · Autobiographical Fiction · Coming-of-Age Story · Nostalgia · Family Drama · Social Commentary · Class Struggle · Love Story · Romance · Realism · Psychological Insight · Character Study