Lev Nikolaevič Tolstoy

The Death of Ivan Ilych and the Devil (Hesperus Classics)

Maximus

There are spoilers here (sort of). - However, the biggest spoiler is the title of this book. So... You know, potato, patato.

In case you didn't guess... Ivan dies. 

A timeless, realistic and unapologetically honest account of a man in his last moments, during his own fait accompli. A man who thought dedicating his time to a good job that pays well and finding a wife are what life is about. 

- What more could a man want, right?

I found that the noteworthy insights in this story are, firstly, the true and despicable intentions of Ivan's wife. Secondly, despite his status via a well paid career, Ivan is replaceable in the working world (as are we). His job is sought after by his jealous and vulturous colleagues. Lastly, Ivan's money cannot buy him time, nor a clean bill of health. Both the wife and colleagues want Ivan out of the way so that they can reap the benefits following his death. Ivan's son, however, is someone who I really felt sorry for. The key message I received from this story is that a life spent in pursuit of personal gain and in loving the wrong person is a wasted one.

This story successfully and expressively exposes the unfortunate and common realities of a mediocre life which people can all too often fall victim to. A powerful example of history repeating itself down the generations.

When reading this story, it reminded me of the saying... "Women and children are loved unconditionally. A man is loved on the condition that he provides something".

A tour de force novella by Tolstoy.

(Unfortunately, I cannot rememeber much of the second story "The Devil". A review will be provided when I get the chance to give this book a 2nd read.)

The Death of Ivan Ilych and the Devil (Hesperus Classics)

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