The Adventures of Chichikov. Crimson Island

Mikhail Afanasyevich Bulgakov is rightly considered one of the great writers of the world, whose contribution to Russian and world literature is invaluable. Not only his immortal novels deserve attention—but also his short feuilletons, whose accuracy is still relevant to this day.
“The Adventures of Chichikov” is an independent feuilleton that serves as a continuation of Gogol’s immortal poem “Dead Souls.” The action takes place in Moscow during the NEP period. Nascent market relations, the proclaimed equality that in practice turns into systemwide slackness, irresponsibility, and helplessness—against this backdrop, Chichikov easily flourishes and reveals all the power of his nature: that of a scoundrel and a swindler.
“The Crimson Island” is a translation of Jules Verne’s novel into a style characteristic of Bulgakov. The novel itself became the basis for criticisms from the Soviet authorities directed at Bulgakov. Supposedly, by showing the life of the natives, the author mocked the ideas of the revolution. Attacks from critics continued for quite a long time. But today, an audiobook with a sharp, witty parody can delight any lover of classics—sparkling, incomparable, and unmatched.