Ghosts

"Призраки" (translated as "Phantoms" or "Apparitions" or"Ghosts") is a work by Ivan Turgenev that explores themes of memory, loss and the supernatural. Written in a style that combines psychological depth and ethereal mystery, Turgenev provides a narrative that goes beyond mere ghost stories, integrating psychological, emotional and existential aspects into the supernatural events. Turgenev explores a Necrology- the connection between the living and the dead, where the apparitions may symbolise unfulfilled desires, unresolved issues or unattained peace. The stories serve not only as ghost stories, but also as explorations of the human psyche, revealing the characters' inner fears, guilt and unresolved emotions. The ghosts in his stories manifest buried or repressed emotions and memories, weaving a complex narrative that combines the eerie atmosphere of supernatural tales with profound, often melancholic reflections on life, death and the human soul. His exploration of the supernatural is not merely for the thrill of the ghostly, but is deeply intertwined with his exploration of the emotional and moral realms of human existence.

Turgenev actually wrote to Dostoevsky about this novella Ghosts in a letter dated May 25th, 1863:

"Dear Fyodor Mikhailovich, I have not written to you for so long because I wanted to say something positive to you. Now I can inform you that I have begun to rewrite a thing - I don't know what to call it - at any rate not a story - rather a fantasy, under the title: "Ghosts". - It has long been in my mind, but I have long for it - and for nothing - did not take it. I am afraid, as if it would not seem too unmodern, almost childish - especially in the current difficult and important time. - However, you will see for yourself - and if necessary, I will write a small - apologetic; preface or introduction. You will receive it in two or three weeks. - It is too two pages of typewritten paper, by my reckoning. - I have settled here for the whole summer and hope to work. I couldn't do anything in Paris. - Write to me here. - The air is light here and the land is beautiful."