The Wall by Leonid Andreyev (1909)

Name: The Wall
Author: Leonid Andreyev

The story revolves around a man who lives in a small apartment with his wife and daughter. He works as a clerk but feels unfulfilled and disconnected from the world outside. One day, he decides to take drastic action by building a wall between himself and his family, symbolizing his emotional disconnection. As time passes, the wall grows taller and thicker, becoming a physical barrier that separates him from those he loves. His wife and daughter try to reach out to him, but he becomes increasingly isolated and withdrawn. The story explores themes of alienation, loneliness, and the human need for connection. The wall serves as a metaphor for the emotional barriers we build around ourselves, preventing us from truly connecting with others. Throughout the narrative, the man's mental state deteriorates, and his relationships with his family become more strained. The wall becomes a symbol of his own emotional imprisonment, highlighting the consequences of his actions. Ultimately, the story raises questions about the nature of human connection and the importance of empathy in our lives.

By Leonid Andreyev · First published 1909 · Genre: Philosophical Fiction, Tragedy, Symbolism · 6 chapters · 3,588 words

First lines

I and another leper cautiously drew near to the very wall, and looked up. From where we stood its top was not visible, but it rose straight and smooth, and as it were bisected the sky. Our half of the sky was dark grey, toned gradually into dark blue on the horizon, so that it was impossible to say where the black earth began, and where the sky ended. The dark night sighed and groaned dull and sad, crushed between the earth and the sky, and with each sigh there spluttered out from her bosom sharp hot grains of sand, which intensified the torture of our burning sores.

What this Textopian page supports

The Wall is listed on Textopian as a novel by Leonid Andreyev, dated 1909 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Novel
Author: Leonid Andreyev
Date: 1909 CE
Language: English
Genres: Philosophical Fiction, Tragedy, Symbolism, Gothic Fiction, Social Commentary
Length: 3,588 words
Structure: 6 chapters, 79 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

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Discussion starters

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Similar titles

Genres

Philosophical Fiction — The narrative explores deep existential themes, questioning the nature of suffering, humanity, and the search for meaning.
Tragedy — The story is steeped in despair and the tragic condition of the characters, highlighting their suffering and hopelessness.
Symbolism — The wall serves as a powerful symbol of barriers, both physical and psychological, representing isolation and the struggle against fate.
Gothic Fiction — The dark, oppressive atmosphere and themes of decay and despair align with gothic elements.