Polzunkov: Dignity in Disgrace, The Mask of Laughter, and the Pain of Being Overlooked (Hardcover) (ISBN-13: 9781804219065)

Polzunkov tells the story of a pitiful, lowly man constantly ridiculed by society. Seen as a joke by everyone-including himself-he plays along with the laughter, using self-deprecation as a shield. But beneath his clownish behavior hides a quiet strength, and when a moment of truth arrives, Polzunkov reveals a side no one expected.

Dostoevsky blends humor and heartbreak in this lesser-known but deeply moving short story. It's a tale about appearances, hidden dignity, and the deep emotional cost of being dismissed and forgotten.

This modern translation preserves the subtlety and soul of Dostoevsky's narrative while updating the language for fluid, accessible reading.

What You'll Discover in This Modern Translation:

• A Deeply Human Story of Humiliation and Heart - Explore the life of a man who hides his pain behind jokes.
• Sharp Social Critique - See how cruelty can disguise itself as laughter-and how easy it is to overlook quiet dignity.
• An Unexpected Moment of Bravery - Witness a surprising act that forces everyone to rethink what they thought they knew.
• A Balance of Satire and Sympathy - Dostoevsky delivers both humor and heartbreak with unflinching honesty.

This edition modernizes Dostoevsky's story for clarity and emotional impact while staying true to the original spirit. A perfect choice for fans of character-driven fiction and stories that reveal the humanity in the most unlikely places.