Book · 1656 · Continental european fiction (fictional works by one author)
The possessed
Why people recommend it
The Possessed by Fyodor Dostoevsky, also frequently translated as The Demons, is a deeply philosophical and political novel that examines the destructive impacts of radical nihilism and ideological fanaticism on Russian society. Speaking on the How I Write podcast in September 2024 during an episode titled How to Tell a Great Story, Robert Greene discussed his literary preferences and creative influences. Greene shared that Dostoevsky's work stands as one of his absolute favorite novels, expressing his personal preference for the title The Possessed over alternative translations. He praised the book by emphasizing what an amazing novel it truly is, pointing to its intricate plotting and profound psychological depth. The narrative dramatizes a provincial town descending into chaos as a secret cell of revolutionary nihilists manipulates local youths, serving as an enduring and prophetic critique of ideological extremism, moral decay, and the psychological perils of utopian zealotry.
Who recommended it
- Robert Greene Recommended
Robert Greene — 1 mention
“And like one of my favorite novels of his is The Possessed. I think it's also translated as The Demons, but I like the title, The Possessed. What an amazing novel that is.”