With phrases like "In despair there are the most intense enjoyments" and "Real life oppressed me with its novelty so much that I could hardly breathe", Fyodor Dostoevsky created books that are still widely read centuries later. Paradoxical, confrontational and disconcerting, Notes from Underground demands you take a look in the mirror. During the first edition of Book Buddies, the University Library's book club, we will discuss this extraordinary title.

Often, books are about the noble and the rich. Not these two. Notes from Underground presents you with a glimpse into the miserable, ugly, but also highly intriguing side of a retired civil servant. The protagonist shows you the psyche of a disturbed man, while also making you empathise with him, causing you to maybe even recognise yourself in parts of him. The book transports you to 19th century Russia, and will keep you interested for the full 150 pages. 

The gambler, the second story you'll find in this edition of the book, takes a similar approach, but draws you into the life of a notorious gambling addict, who faces a dilemma: to either lay down the dice or to keep gambling. The consequences of this decision are all but meaningless. Throughout the book, you will find yourself frustrated, confused and even more frustrated. That’s the beauty of it.

Before reading, the only question remaining seems to be: are you ready for a confrontation with the miserable, and maybe even with yourself?

During a literary evening at debate centre 3D, we will discuss the themes in the book and see how the book makes us confront our own ugly parts. This event is organised by 3D, the University Student Council and the University Library.

Programme

16.00 Introduction and opening speech by Joep van Dijk

16.15 Reading a passage from the book

16.30 Discussion

17.30 Drinks and snacks

Would you like to join Book Buddies? Grab your free copy of the book at 3D, the pop-up library or the library information desk on the first floor of the Main Building.