Summary
Notes from the Underground is a dark, introspective monologue by an unnamed narrator—often referred to as the “Underground Man.” Living in isolation in a squalid St.
Petersburg apartment, he offers a scathing critique of modern society, rationalism, and utopian thinking.
He is bitter, self-loathing, hyper-intelligent, and at war with both the world and himself.
Split into two parts:
“Underground” (Part One) is a philosophical rant where the narrator rejects the idea that human behavior can be explained by logic or reason.
He argues that people often act irrationally—on purpose—just to assert their freedom.
“Apropos of the Wet Snow” (Part Two) recounts humiliating episodes from the narrator's youth—failed social encounters, toxic pride, and a disastrous encounter with a young prostitute named Liza—all revealing the depth of his alienation and inner torment.