Sanine

Sanine by Mikhail Artsybashev is a provocative and controversial novel that explores themes of existentialism, moral ambiguity, and the complexities of human desire. First published in 1907, Sanine became a scandalous sensation in Russia due to its bold and unflinching portrayal of a disillusioned, anti-heroic protagonist. Artsybashev, a writer with radical views, created a novel that critiques both social conventions and the ideals of traditional morality, making it a key work in early 20th-century Russian literature.


The novel follows the life of Sanine, a young man who embodies the nihilistic spirit of the time. Detached from conventional ideals of good and evil, Sanine lives a life of self-indulgence and emotional detachment, rejecting traditional societal values and embracing a philosophy of personal freedom and hedonism. He seeks pleasure without regard for consequence, often engaging in relationships that are shallow, fleeting, and devoid of emotional commitment. His worldview is centered on the idea that life is inherently meaningless, and thus, he believes that the pursuit of personal satisfaction is the only worthwhile endeavor.


As the novel unfolds, Sanine’s interactions with others reveal the emotional and psychological toll of his self-destructive philosophy. He forms relationships with several characters, including Valentina, a woman who falls in love with him and hopes to bring meaning to his life. However, Sanine’s inability to engage with her emotionally and his cold indifference towards others highlight his inner conflict and the emptiness of his existence. His escapism and disregard for conventional morality put him at odds with a society that values social norms and conventional relationships.


Through Sanine’s character, Artsybashev critiques the moral rigidity and hypocrisy of Russian society at the time. Sanine’s rejection of societal expectations is both liberating and destructive, showing the tension between individual freedom and the constraints of social order. The novel portrays the inner turmoil of a man caught between his desire for freedom and his inability to connect meaningfully with others. As Sanine drifts through life without a clear purpose, the novel raises questions about the nature of human happiness, the limits of self-expression, and the consequences of a life without moral compass.