Nikolai Gogol (1809–1852)

An intriguing, unfinished book (there are two volumes, with the second unfinished, and unreleasedin Gogol's lifetime). A satirical novel which explores Russian society, and particularly the ruling and landownding classes, in the early 19th century. In general, they are depicted as being some combination of weak, venal, idiotic, criminal, mean, gluttonous, etc., etc. It's pretty scathing, but in an cheery, good-natured way.

The main character, Chichikov, has a huge amount of energy and ambition for making his fortune through shady schemes. The main one he pursues through the book is the purchasing of dead peasants (the "Dead Souls" of the title) from estate owners - presumably so he could mortgage them, although that's not entirely clear (and I hoped, as I was reading, for a more creative use to reveal itself).

The book is sprawling, and kinda overlong by modern standards, but definitely has a modern feel to it. It is playful, and genuinely funny in parts.

The second volume is unfinished, and it is very strange reading a story that has unfinished sentences and, larger and larger chunks missing as you get toward the end. Your interest necessarily wanes, until you and the book just drift away from each other. It's like a amicable, mutual break-up.… (more)

This book by Nikolai Gogol is a classic. Beware, though, it is a challenging book to read. It is challenging because we use simpler language and sentence structures today compared to the nineteenth century. Be patient while reading the book. Patience will reward you.
Gogol creates a rich tapestry of life in the 19th century and creates fascinating portraits of all the main characters involved. Our hero, Chichikov, stands out because he is out to buy 'dead souls,' or the lists of all dead serfs.
This unusual endeavour and his escapades excite the townspeople, who gossip about him. Rumours fly, and he flees. Part Two, which Gogol did not complete, continues with the tale a few years later.
The book is an allegory about society, and all that is possibly wrong with it. He does not preach, but when you read the book, you may see parallels with modern society,

Nothing has changed.

Read the book, and enjoy the poetry of a master.… (more)