Autumn in St. Petersburg

Book Review

«Autumn in St. Petersburg» by John Maxwell Coetzee is a complex and multilayered work that explores themes of loss, guilt, and the search for truth. The book presents a fictional story in which the main character, writer Fyodor Dostoevsky, arrives in St. Petersburg to investigate the circumstances of his stepson Pavel's death. Critics note that Coetzee masterfully recreates the atmosphere of 19th-century Russia, immersing the reader in a world full of political intrigue and personal tragedies. The author's style is characterized by deep psychological exploration of characters and philosophical reflections on the nature of evil and human frailty. Some reviewers emphasize that the novel requires attentive reading and contemplation, as Coetzee employs complex literary techniques and allusions to Dostoevsky's work. At the same time, critics admire how the author manages to combine historical accuracy with artistic invention, creating a work that evokes strong emotional responses and leaves many questions for reflection.