The Rendezvous 1907   By: Ivan S. Turgenev (1818-1883)

In Ivan S. Turgenev's novel, The Rendezvous 1907, readers are transported to a time of great political unrest and social upheaval in Russia. Turgenev's masterful storytelling and skillful character development make this book an engaging and thought-provoking read.

Set in the year 1907, the novel follows the lives of a diverse group of individuals, each representing a different segment of Russian society. Through their intersecting paths, Turgenev presents a panoramic view of the various struggles and aspirations of this tumultuous era.

One of the most striking aspects of The Rendezvous 1907 is Turgenev's ability to capture the spirit of the time, as well as the characters' internal conflicts. The author's attention to detail is impeccable, providing vivid descriptions of both the physical world and the characters' emotional landscapes. This attention to detail enables readers to fully immerse themselves in the world Turgenev has created.

Moreover, Turgenev's character development is truly remarkable. Each character, regardless of their social position, is depicted with great nuance and complexity. From the disillusioned aristocrat to the ambitious revolutionary, Turgenev examines the motivations and desires driving these individuals. As a result, readers gain a deep understanding of the complexities of human nature and the diverse societal forces at play during this time.

The novel also explores the themes of love, betrayal, and sacrifice. Turgenev navigates these themes with a delicate hand, portraying the characters' interactions and relationships with great sensitivity. The emotional depth of the narrative resonates with readers, evoking empathy and prompting contemplation long after the final page is turned.

While the pacing of The Rendezvous 1907 may be considered slow at times, Turgenev's elegant prose more than compensates for it. His command over language and ability to create vivid imagery are truly impressive. The dialogue, in particular, is skillfully crafted, enhancing the authenticity and believability of the characters' interactions.

However, one aspect that could be seen as a drawback is the sheer number of characters introduced throughout the story. As their paths intertwine, it can sometimes be challenging to keep track of each individual's role and relevance. However, the overarching themes and the richness of Turgenev's storytelling help to overcome this minor flaw.

Overall, The Rendezvous 1907 is a captivating and insightful novel that offers a poignant portrayal of Russian society during a crucial period in history. Turgenev's mastery of storytelling, his intricate character development, and his ability to delve into the complexities of human nature make this book a timeless and worthwhile read for anyone interested in historical fiction or Russian literature.

First Page:

I was sitting in a birch grove in autumn, near the middle of September. It had been drizzling ever since morning; occasionally the sun shone warmly; the weather was changeable. Now the sky was overcast with watery white clouds, now it suddenly cleared up for an instant, and then the bright, soft azure, like a beautiful eye, appeared from beyond the dispersed clouds. I was sitting looking about me and listening. The leaves were slightly rustling over my head; and by their very rustle one could tell what season of the year it was. It was not the gay, laughing palpitation of spring; not a soft whispering, nor the lingering chatter of summer, nor the timid and cold lisping of late autumn, but a barely audible, drowsy prattle. A faint breeze was whisking over the tree tops. The interior of the grove, moist from the rain, was forever changing, as the sun shone or hid beyond the clouds; now the grove was all illuminated as if everything in it had burst into a smile; the trunks of the birch trees suddenly assumed the soft reflection of white silk; the small leaves which lay scattered on the ground all at once became variegated and flashed up like red gold; and the pretty stalks of the tall, branchy ferns, already tinted in their autumn hue, resembling the color of overripe grapes, appeared here and there tangling and crossing one another... Continue reading book >>