Its story of passion and despair is based on Dostoevsky's own experience as a compulsive gambler-but Dostoevsky was able to break away, whereas Alexei vows to quit as soon as he breaks even-an event, it is clear, that will never happen.
Like so many other characters in Dostoeveky's novels, Alexei is trying to break through the wall of the established order and the human condition itself. But instead he is drawn into the roulette wheel's vortex.
The character's are all described very well and the story is credible. It's obvious that Dostojewski is acquainted with gambling otherwise I think he wouldn't have been able to dive into the character of Alexei and write about the addiction so well. From time to time it gets a little heart to follow the emotional acts of the characters, especially when he writes about Polina having a breakdown. However, the story itself is really interesting and the writing style is also pleasant. It was a fascinating read getting soaked into the mind of a gambler. Although the novel was published in 1867 it still is up to date.
Reading updates
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Started reading
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29 August, 2013:
Finished reading
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29 August, 2013:
Reviewed