In his diaries, Franz Kafka reflects on the theme of misery as evident in Dostoevsky's works. He finds that the struggles and existential dilemmas faced by the characters resonate deeply with his own experiences of despair. This connection suggests a profound understanding of human suffering and the complexities of life that both authors grapple with through their writings.

Kafka's exploration of these themes emphasizes the weight of individual suffering and the often isolating nature of such experiences. By drawing parallels to Dostoevsky, he underscores a shared literary tradition that confronts the darker aspects of the human condition, illuminating the universal feelings of loneliness and existential discontent.