An Unpleasant Predicament: A Darkly Comic Tale of Pride, Chaos, and Social Satire - A Modern Translation - Adapted for the Contemporary Reader

What if your grand gesture of kindness turned into your most humiliating moment?

In An Unpleasant Predicament, Fyodor Dostoevsky delivers a sharp-witted, satirical novella that follows the misadventures of Ivan Ivanovich Pralinsky, an arrogant government official who considers himself a progressive and benevolent leader. In an impulsive decision to demonstrate his goodwill, he crashes the wedding of a low-ranking employee—only to find himself caught in a series of humiliations and comic misfortunes.

As Pralinsky’s self-image unravels before an audience that neither respects nor welcomes him, Dostoevsky crafts a biting critique of vanity, bureaucracy, and the delusions of self-importance.

What You’ll Discover in This Modern Translation:

A Darkly Humorous Social Satire • – Experience Dostoevsky’s sharp critique of hypocrisy, pride, and class dynamics. A Masterful Exploration of Human Vanity • – Witness how arrogance and self-delusion lead to inevitable downfall. A Fresh, Accessible Translation • – This adaptation preserves Dostoevsky’s wit and insight while making the story engaging for modern readers. A Timeless Reflection on Status and Power • – Discover how Pralinsky’s predicament mirrors the universal struggles of ego and self-deception.

More than just a humorous story, An Unpleasant Predicament is a profound examination of social hierarchy, personal pride, and the fine line between dignity and disgrace.

Can a man’s good intentions save him from his own arrogance?

Get your copy today and experience one of Dostoevsky’s most entertaining and thought-provoking novellas.

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Release date

Audiobook: 3 June 2025