Notes from Underground

By: Fyodor Dostoevsky

Narrated by: George Guidall

"I am a sick man...I am a spiteful man", a nameless voice cries out. And so, from underground, emerge the passionate confessions of a suffering man; the painful self-examination of a tormented soul; the bristling scorn of a lonely individual who has become one of the greatest anti-heroes in all literature.

Notes from Underground reveals Fyodor Dostoevsky on the threshold of genius, discovering the ideas that would later lead him to create his most monumental novels: Crime and Punishment, The Idiot, and The Brothers Karamazov. Those who are familiar with his works will immediately recognize the novel's richly complex philosophical, political, and psychological themes; those who are not will find in their hands the best introduction to Dostoevsky's grander masterpieces.

Notes from Underground will deepen your understanding of a giant among writers of world literature - a man who continues to influence the greatest thinkers and writers in the Western world today.

Public Domain (P)1995 Recorded Books

Scathing critique of modernity relevant even today

Notes from the underground is about an average redditor or 4chan user who specced too much into intelligence and not enough into wisdom. He is a nerd who despite being very KNOWLEDGEABLE about things doesnt have the thumos or willpower to APPLY that knowledge to everyday situations, socially or otherwise.

He views himself as inferior to people who are less intelligent than himself because they are able to shut the brain off briefly and deal with the absurdity of the world while he himself is too busy intellectualizing or rationalizing things in his own life to ever go out into the world and do anything meaningful. The underground man is both a warning against modernity and the forsaking of traditional values as well as a warning against isolation and over analyzing that often comes with people like himself.

Dostoevskys novels are very good at capturing the essence of existentialism at a time before existentialism really took off because they often answered the age old question of “youve been granted consciousness in a world of constant pain and confusion- now what will you do with it?” of course those who read this book entirely through know the underground man’s response to this. He does nothing. He goes into hiding and never stares out into that cold abyss to scream into the void “I am alive”. In fact, im certain the title of the novella itself is a reflection of this.

I strongly encourage you to do so, at least up until the part where he waits for the girl at the end to at least get an idea of his rationale so that you can avoid becoming this very man

The beginning of existentialism?

I love Dostoevsky’s storytelling. How he takes a simple person and peels them back layer by layer into complex and relatable characters that remain with you. He explores in a fascinating manner human nature and psychology. The beginning is tough, but the ending delivers.

Fantastic

One of the best audiobooks I've listened to yet. Powerful writing by Dostoevsky and wonderful presentation by Guidall.

the narration really put the voice to doetoevsky

Wonderfully narrative accomplishment by George Guidall in bringing the narrative monolog in Fyodor Dostoevsky's protagonist (?) to life.. as a fan of the author, I now have a bit better clarity in my understanding of other works - The Idiot, Crime and Punishment.. getting a paper copy to reference

Must read!

Masterpiece! One of the greatest books ever written. Not really a novel though… more like a “stream of consciousness.” But what insights though! Great short listen. 👍🏾

An enthralling look at human weakness

A two part novella. First, an embittered essay on forced social rationalism vs chaotic individual freedom. Second, the tale of an intellectual ruined by his neurotic self-obsessions.
Excellent.

"Echoes of the Human Psyche: George Guidall Breathes Life into Dostoevsky's Classic"

"Notes from the Underground" by Fyodor Dostoevsky, narrated by the talented George Guidall, is an absolute masterpiece that transcends time and resonates deeply with listeners. Guidall's mesmerizing narration brings to life the complex characters and profound philosophical themes of this classic work, making it a truly unforgettable auditory experience.

Dostoevsky's exploration of the human psyche and society's impact on the individual is brought to life in vivid detail through Guidall's expert storytelling. The raw emotions, existential crises, and dark humor of the Underground Man are expertly portrayed, drawing listeners into his world of alienation and self-destructive tendencies.

Guidall's voice captures the essence of Dostoevsky's writing, infusing each word with depth and emotion. His narration skillfully conveys the intricate complexities of the characters' inner turmoil, creating a rich and immersive listening experience that will leave a lasting impact on the audience.

Whether you're a fan of classic literature or simply appreciate profound philosophical insights, "Notes from the Underground" narrated by George Guidall is a must-listen audiobook that will challenge your perceptions, provoke contemplation, and stir your soul.

Five Quotes from "Notes from the Underground":
1. "Man is sometimes extraordinarily, passionately, in love with suffering."
2. "I am a sick man... I am a spiteful man. I am an unattractive man."
3. "Every man has reminiscences which he would not tell to everyone but only to his friends."
4. "What do you think, would not one tiny crime be wiped out by thousands of good deeds?"
5. "I say let the world go to hell, but I should always have my tea."

Moral of the Story:
Through the lens of the Underground Man's internal monologue and existential musings, "Notes from the Underground" delves deep into the complexities of human nature and the inherent contradictions of the human psyche. The moral of the story lies in the exploration of the consequences of isolation, alienation, and the search for meaning in a world that often seems absurd and devoid of purpose.

Ultimately, Dostoevsky's timeless work serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of introspection, self-awareness, and the pursuit of genuine connection with others. It challenges readers to confront their own inner demons, embrace their humanity in all its flaws and contradictions, and strive towards a more authentic and fulfilling existence.

Amazing!!

What a pearl read by a fantastic reader!! One simply cannot get any further seeking the intimacy of the human soul!

The greatest version you will ever here 👍👍👍👍👍 ....

George Guidall's performance on the tape I borrowed many years ago comes through as crystal clear in performance and with a true veteran actors pace as when I first heard it , ive waited many years to get this version and now I can put all the other poor to bad recordings of this classic ive owned away 😜.... 5 stars ...

One of those Paradox

It is the way FD delires his work, you do not get it, I don’t get it unless I read the whole story, sometimes not just one but twice. George Guidall make this easy to continue listening this kind of work, he is an amazing performer.
Thank you.