The novel "The Cave," the concluding work of Aldanov’s "October" trilogy, reveals the author’s views on the turning-point era in Russian history. In "The Cave," the writer sums up his reflections on the essence of the Russian uprising and the role played by different social strata within it. Is it possible to overthrow the Bolsheviks’ power? Who is to blame for the fact that this did not happen? From exile, Mark Aldanov looks back at the years of October and the Civil War—asks questions and tries to find answers. Perhaps the dialogues of some of Aldanov’s heroes may seem like they’re lecturing. Indeed, in the historical novel the author’s socio-philosophical position sounds clearly. At the same time, putting on stage the heroes—"small people"—allows one to view the revolutionary era through the eyes of representatives of various classes.
This makes the novel more expansive. And, most importantly, the relevance of the questions raised in "The Cave" has not diminished with time.