Steel Flea |
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![]() Steel Flea by Nikolai Leskov is a satirical and humorous novella that follows the misadventures of a young engineer who becomes infatuated with a magical flea that can perform incredible feats. The story is set in the Russian countryside and offers a glimpse into the absurdities and contradictions of 19th-century Russian society. Leskov's prose is witty and engaging, and he expertly weaves together elements of folklore, technology, and social commentary. The characters are vividly drawn, from the ambitious engineer Yakov to the eccentric inventor Tyapa, and the interactions between them are both hilarious and thought-provoking. The central theme of the story seems to be the tension between ambition and reality, as Yakov's obsession with the flea leads him down a path of increasingly absurd and dangerous experiments. Through Yakov's experiences, Leskov explores the pitfalls of blind ambition and the consequences of prioritizing personal glory over more meaningful pursuits. Overall, Steel Flea is a charming and insightful novella that offers a unique perspective on the human condition. Leskov's blend of humor, satire, and social critique makes this book a delightful and thought-provoking read for fans of Russian literature and satire. Book Description: |
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Fiction |
Literature |
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