First Love, and Other Stories

A collection of short stories written in the mid-19th century. The most notable tale within this collection, ''First Love,'' focuses on the narrator, Vladímir Petróvitch, and his poignant experiences with young love, particularly his infatuation with Princess Zinaída Zasyékin. This story captures the essence of adolescent emotions and the complexities of romantic relationships during that era. At the start of ''First Love,'' we are introduced to Vladímir, a sixteen-year-old boy enjoying a carefree summer in Moscow. The narrative unfolds as he describes the initial stirrings of love after encountering Princess Zinaída, who is charming and playful, captivating him and a group of young men around her. The interactions between Vladímir and Zinaída showcase youthful innocence and the profound impact of first romantic feelings, as he oscillates between joy and jealousy, revealing the tumultuous nature of adolescent affection. Through lively dialogues and vivid descriptions, the opening portion sets the stage for a deeper exploration of love's beauty and heartbreak.