summary

Summary

«The Epiphan Locks» is a novella by Andrei Platonov, written in 1927. The story is set in 18th-century Russia. The main character, Bertrand Perry, an English engineer, arrives in Russia at the invitation of Peter the Great to construct locks on the Oka River to connect it with the Don. Perry faces numerous challenges: harsh climate, misunderstanding and distrust from the locals, and bureaucratic obstacles. Despite all efforts, the project ends in failure. The novella explores themes of human resilience, loneliness, and cultural clashes.