"Notes from the Underground," written by Fyodor Dostoevsky, revolves around an unnamed narrator who presents his thoughts and experiences from a state of existential malaise and alienation. The book is divided into two parts, with the first focusing on the narrator's reflections on society, morality, and his own inner turmoil, suggesting his conflicted feelings about modernity and human nature. He grapples with his role in a world that often seems absurd and oppressive, illustrating the struggle between individualism and the expectations of society.
The second part of the book narrates an episodic story about the narrator’s interactions with others that highlight his bitter loneliness and deep-seated resentment. Through these encounters, he showcases his disdain for societal norms and exposes the contradictions within himself. His isolation leads him to both self-loathing and a longing for connection, reflecting the complex nature of human relationships and the pain that often accompanies them.