The Nose and Other Stories – Nikolai Gogol

Translated by Susanne Fusso

Columbia University Press | Paperback | September 1, 2020

The Nose and Other Stories is a testament to a writer at play and an artist who lets his imagination wander. Through Susanne Fusso’s translation, the absurdity that runs through Gogol’s short stories shines through. There are no jarring moments where Gogol’s odd humor and phrasing get lost in the translation. The collection spans from the bustle of St. Petersburg, ancient Rome, and rural Ukraine, and in each story Gogol walks a blurred line between fantasy and reality. While the stories are easy to read, this collection isn’t necessarily addictive. Several of the themes (e.g. temptation and the dangers of beautiful women) are dated and not particularly timely. But due to the stories’ bizarre plots and fantastical elements, it’s understandable as to why many writers continue to return to Gogol’s imaginative work.