First love, and other stories

Name: First love, and other stories
Author: Ivan Sergeevich Turgenev

A nostalgic first-person narrator recollects an intense adolescent infatuation with an older, coquettish young woman who amuses herself by manipulating a circle of devoted suitors. The story traces the narrator's awakening to desire, jealousy, humiliation, and the bittersweet mingling of memory and imagination, set against everyday domestic tensions and social gatherings. The collection pairs this intimate study with other short pieces that examine fleeting passions, complex interpersonal dynamics, and subtle social observation, rendered in spare, lyrical prose that emphasizes psychological nuance, atmosphere, and the gap between youthful expectation and adult disillusionment.

By Ivan Sergeevich Turgenev

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Russian Literature Short Stories

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About the Author

Ivan Sergeevich Turgenev

Ivan Sergeevich Turgenev was a prominent Russian novelist, playwright, and poet, known for his profound exploration of social issues and human psychology. Born in 1818, he became a key figure in 19th-century Russian literature, contributing significantly to the development of the modern novel. Turgenev's works often reflect the tensions between the old aristocracy and the emerging middle class in Russia. His most notable novel, "Fathers and Sons," examines generational conflict and the clash of ideologies. Other significant works include "A Month in the Country" and "A Sportsman's Sketches," which showcase his keen observational skills and lyrical prose. Turgenev's literary legacy continues to influence writers and readers around the world.