The Overcoat cover art

The Overcoat

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About this listen

 The writer who did most to establish prose as a force in Russian literary culture was Nikolai Gogol. Gogol's example combined with the pronouncements of the literary critics of the period, established prose as the literary medium of the future. Fyodor Dostoevsky is supposed to have said, referring to himself and his fellow Realists, "We have all come out from under Gogol's 'Overcoat'".Public Domain (P)1981 Jimcin Co. Classics Russia

Editor reviews

Nikolai Gogol's "The Overcoat", first published in 1842, remains to this day one of the most influential works of Russian literature ever to be written. This renowned short story follows protagonist Akaky Akakievich on a tragicomic quest first for a new and very fine overcoat, and later, for a revenge of sorts after misfortune befalls this poor clerk and his beautiful coat.

Actor Walter Zimmerman has a particularly sharp and interesting style of narration, and a very strong ear for tone, resulting in an especially subtle and nuanced performance of this classic piece.

Critic reviews

"This story ( The Overcoat), one of Gogol's most famous is skillfully narrated to reflect the author's frustration with civil service and the plight of the poor, and will evoke an emotional response among listeners." ( Booklist)
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I have just got into Russian literature and The Overcoat was the first talking book I got on this genre and the story just kept me totally engaged throughout. I have read a fair bit of English and American literature and I can only put it on a par with Steinbeck and his 'Cannery Row' for its beauty of insight into the human condition.

It is a fantastic book and really makes you ponder over people, life and detail.

Thought provoking ...

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There is an echo to this which is extremely distracting - a shame as the story is good

Distracting echo

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