The Death of Ivan Ilyich is one of Leo Tolstoy’s shorter novels, which eloquently shares the story of a man’s experience with an agonizing death. It is a brilliant performance of the confrontation with death that awaits us all, and it manages to encapture the audience with a sole character who unleashes cathartic emotions among us. This journey of a man robbed from a satisfactory life teaches us that it is not worth living up to the expectations of others, rather, to follow our own inclinations. 

We observe the life of a middle-aged man by the name of Ivan Ilyich. He is born with success practically waiting for him, as he is destined to hold the title of Judge. Hardworking, financially comfortable, residing in a lavish house, and married to the most beautiful woman, he seems to have everything a man could want and need. Believing that his life has been spent well up until before tragedy strikes, Ilyich is content. Even with minor issues, such as in his marriage, this man is able to balance his life between home and work. How enviable he must appear, however his dramatic change in demeanor as he realizes his nearing death is what really engages the audience because of its unexpectancy. Now afflicted with a physical ailment, Ivan wakes up from his routine days. Frustratedly, he contemplates this underlying feeling that his work is not yet finished. It was too late for him to change, as his illness rendered him unable, and in the thick of his distraught, he figures out his displeasure originates from not having completed anything in life that he desired. What a predicament, how horrible it must be to come to such a realization on your deathbed! 

Shockingly, though not unwelcome, Ilyich finds some peace in one of his last moments by figuring his passing to be the only thing worth his while. This may be because he is being rescued from a world that does not cater to the joy of humans…though this is my speculation. Asides, this literature compression should certainly triumph as one of the most provocative stories written on mortality and is indispensable in the realm of philosophical compositions. 

“It’s inconceivable, inconceivable that life was so senseless and disgusting. And if it really was so disgusting and senseless, why should I have to die, and die in agony? Something must be wrong. Perhaps I did not live as I should have.”

– Ivan Ilyich