Searching for a short story

[Mortimer]

Hi everyone

I am desperate for some help.  I had a book of Dostoevsky’s short stories a number of years ago, and there was one which really stuck in my mind... but for the life of me I can’t think of the title!

I’ve searched the internet but can’t seem to find it, any help on the subject would be gratefully received.

It was around 20 years ago I read it so my mind might be hazy, but the plot was something like this:

• The man character is a ‘nobody.’

• In a crowd he is literally picked up and moved out of the way by an army officer – something he finds utterly humiliating.

• He begins to follow the officer find out his habits and movements and hatches a plan.

• He, dresses up like a gentleman, goes to a park where he knows the officer will be, and then deliberately walks into the officer.

Does this ring any bells to anyone?
Sorry I know it’s not a lot to go on!

[axon]

Hello Mortimer,
 the story you are looking for is an episode in the "Notes From The Underground" - I'm curious as to what made you think of it after 20 years?

If you'll be buying this book, I suggest the Richard Pevear, and Larissa Volokhonsky translation - enjoy.

[Mortimer]

Axon – you are a superstar!  Thank you!

I had it in my mind it was a short story – that’s probably why I couldn’t find it when searching all the collections available!

It was the first Dostoevsky piece I ever saw, and as it was unlike anything I had ever read previously – it immediately had me hooked!  Somebody asked me how I got into reading his work and I explained this story – but couldn’t remember the title!

I’ve been searching for it so I can recommend it to others!

[axon]

No problem enjoy, and come back with more questions!