Tolstoi's Diaries

From 1847 to 1910 Tolstoi maintained a diary containing, almost daily, entries of his thoughts, health, ideas, personal acquaintances and encounters. When I read these entries I envisage listening and asking questions as Tolstoi and I engage in an imaginary dialogue. The follow is the first of many more diary passages I will post, simply because I believe them to be windows into Tolstoi’s soul:

“18 August   Got up late, health is good; but in the morning I lost my temper and called someone a blockhead. It’s terrible!  Before you know it, you’ve come to grief again. Read The Iliad. Seryozha came; we had a pleasant chat. I’ve thought out The Hunting Ground completely, but I’m altogether dissatisfied with the Caucasian tale. I can’t write without an idea. But the idea that good is good in every sphere, that the same passions exist everywhere and that the primitive state is good, isn’t enough. It would be a good thing, though, if the latter work could inspire me. It’s the only solution.”

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