The Dream of a Ridiculous Man

A short story narrated by a man who considers himself ridiculous and has come to feel that nothing in the world matters. One night, on the edge of despair, he falls asleep and has a vivid dream that carries him far from his old life. On waking, he sees things differently and feels driven to share what he has learned. The story is brief and visionary, and it expresses Dostoevsky's hope in compassion and love as the foundations of a good life.