This will be the first Russian literature book I’ve read and find it lucky to have fallen in love with the narration by the author. The subject of death is a taboo and abhor for many people who rubs off its occurrence as a negative effect. And to have someone talk about it gives a sense of bravery that is appreciable. If combined with a sickness alarms the faint heart thus pushing away from a happenstance that is bleak to even consider. But with Tolstoy character Ivan, the actual moments of suffering, sadness and rejection are conveyed with at most precision. It screams of agony, oppression and despair that anybody could relate to however, I find that Ivan’s acceptance of death to be less potent and feel sorry for the wife character. Never is it easy to be with a sick person when the demands are persistently and emotionally drained. While it is hard to witness such things, remaining characters play their part as promised. Hence, a tale that will make you think, feel and act vividly.
vishnupria 