Misery

Interesting Facts

• The main character of the story is cab driver Iona Potapov, who has lost his son and tries to share his pain with those around him.
• The story raises the theme of human loneliness and society's indifference to others' grief.
• Chekhov masterfully uses symbolism: the snow and cold in the story emphasize the protagonist's inner state and his alienation from the world.
• The story was first published in 1886 in the magazine «Petersburg Gazette».
• The title «Misery» reflects the deep emotional state of the protagonist, his soul's pain and despair.