Author Leo Tolstoy
Country Russia
Genre Fiction: Classic
Publication Date 1877
Pages 864
One of the longest books I have read in
the recent past. But a much awaited and wonderful read. I am amazed
at Leo Tolstoy's ability to weave a beautiful story that touches upon
love, insecurities and societal norms against the backdrop of Russian
contemporary politics.
Through this book (first published in 1878), Leo Tolstoy has
skillfully crafted the story of Anna, a high society woman who falls
in desperate love with Count Vronsky and defies all societal norms to
be with him (leaving behind a husband and a son). She is, however,
not treated well by the society which almost completely shuns her
while Vronsky continues to enjoy a social life.
Interwoven
with this is the tale of Levin who enlightens the readers on the
Russian peasantry system and his search for a deeper meaning in life;
while being married to the wonderful and sensitive Kitty.
What has particularly touched me about this book is how an
intelligent, self assured and an almost formidable woman like Anna
can fall prey to insecurities and jealously over her relationship
with Vronsky. It's a classic case of how each of us harbour
vulnerabilities within us; irrespective of the persona we present to
the world at large. And it's no surprise that society plays an
immense role in our sense of self esteem and worth. Having been
shunned by the society, post her relations with Vronsky, Anna grows
anxious and isolated. And this further fuels her already growing
insecurity.
It
is this insecurity over Vronsky's love for her and her nagging pain
and guilt of having left her son 'motherless' that lead to her tragic
end.
Life is not simple. It has it's shades of grey. Accepting the
greys and cherishing what is brings along is my takeaway from this
almost impeccable piece of literature.
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