The novel revolves around a young man's spiritual crisis and his struggle to reconcile his faith with the harsh realities of life. It explores themes of disillusionment, morality, and the search for meaning in a seemingly meaningless world. The protagonist grapples with the idea that God may not be as present or benevolent as he had been taught, leading to a sense of spiritual disorientation.
By Ivan Bunin · First published 1905 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Magical Realism, Drama