Entering the perfect university, finding the perfect job, marrying the perfect person. How many times have you encountered such notions? How much of your life is driven by social norms and societal expectations? Then you must definitely read The Death of Ivan Ilyich by Leo Tolstoy.
Leo Tolstoy’s The Death of Ivan Ilyich is a profound exploration of existential themes and the human condition. It delves into themes such as the meaning of life, the consequences of conforming to a conventional way of living, the nature of suffering, existential angst and fear of death, the importance of authentic relationships, questioning social norms and conformity, and self-examination.
In essence, Tolstoy’s novella prompts readers to confront the fundamental questions of existence and encourages a reevaluation of priorities, relationships, and the pursuit of a truly fulfilling life. The lessons derived from The Death of Ivan Ilyich resonate across cultures and time, making it a timeless exploration of the human experience.
1. The Meaning of Life
Tolstoy delves deeply into the theme of reflection on the meaning of life, challenging readers to contemplate their own existence and the values they hold. It is one of the key aspects in the exploration of existential themes. Here are some specific points to mention:
Superficial Pursuits vs. Authentic Meaning:
Ivan Ilyich initially lives his life according to superficial values, social norms and societal expectations. He pursues a conventional career, seeks social approval, and adheres to external standards of success. However, as he faces his impending death, he begins to question the authenticity of these pursuits.
It is one of the most profound subject matters each and every human being grapples with. Have we lived an authentic life up to this point? Was it really us who chose certain paths in our lives? Our jobs, our education, and even our attitude toward many things are fundamentally shaped based on what our surroundings have imposed on us consciously or inadvertently.
The Illusion of Success:
The novella challenges the conventional notion of success. Ivan’s rise in the judicial system and his accumulation of wealth are exposed as superficial achievements that provide little genuine satisfaction.
Checking off certain to-dos from a checklist is something most of us are familiar with. Getting promoted: check. Buying a bigger house: check. Throwing more ostentatious parties: check. Climbing up the social ladder: check!
Tolstoy prompts his readers to reevaluate their own definitions of success and question whether societal markers of achievement truly lead to a fulfilling life. At the end of the day, when one is awaiting an impending death, what really matters is not how successful you were once considered in the eyes of the people around you, but how happy you were achieving certain things throughout your time in this world.
What is “success” anyway? It can be anything! For some it can be helping other people, for others it can be living an authentic life, traveling around the world, reading as many books as they can, watching as many films as they can, or being the voice of those whose voices have been suppressed. Success does not have a single definition. Becoming the most popular or the richest or the most influential member of a community is not necessarily success.
The Hollowness of Materialism:
Ivan’s pursuit of material comfort is a central aspect of his life. However, as he faces death, the hollowness of materialism becomes apparent. The truth is, it does not really make a difference how many cars or houses you have bought or how much jewelry or wealth you have accumulated. Because one way or another, you are going to lose them all once you are gone from this world.
The things we work so hard toward achieving, all the toil and trouble we go through to increase our worldly possessions are essentially in vain. However, Tolstoy does not reproach working toward achievements, what he essentially means is that it should not become an obsession, something to live for, something to feel your whole existence depends on it.
Questioning the Status Quo:
Tolstoy challenges us readers to question the societal norms and expectations that may be guiding our intentions in our lives. The narrative suggests that blindly adhering to cultural conventions can lead to a life lacking in depth and meaning.
He invites us to critically evaluate the values and beliefs we have inherited and consider whether these align with our personal truths. How much of the notions of meaning and purpose we believe in stem from our own stance in life and how much of them spring from what we have been taught by administrations? Is this life we’re living really what we want?
The Importance of Introspection:
Ivan’s journey towards self-awareness involves deep introspection. As he grapples with his own mortality, he is forced to confront the choices he made and the life he led.
This indirectly encourages us as readers to engage in similar introspection. To contemplate our own values, motivations and the ultimate purpose of our lives. How much fulfilled are we from the life we are leading? If we had a chance to go back in time, what things would we do differently?
Seeking Intrinsic Fulfillment:
Tolstoy suggests that true meaning is found in intrinsic factors such as love, compassion, and genuine human connection. Ivan’s realization of the emptiness of his life prompts us to consider whether we are prioritizing relationships and values that provide lasting, intrinsic fulfillment rather than fleeting external validations.
How many hearts have we touched? How many lives have we genuinely changed for the better? How much love do we harbor in our hearts? How fulfilled and happy are we from within? Do we have any regrets?
Embracing Existential Questions:
The novella does not shy away from existential questions about life, death, and the nature of existence. These questions are the things we should confront ourselves. It encourages us to explore our attitudes towards our mortality.
Where do we come from? What is our place in this world? Where are we going? How can we find meaning while we are alive? These are profound questions one should come up with their unique answers. In essence, the message of The Death of Ivan Ilyich serves as a mirror for readers to reflect on the authenticity and meaning of their own lives. It invites readers to embark on their own philosophical journey, questioning and redefining the very essence of what it means to live a fulfilling life.
2. The Consequences of a Superficial Existence Portrayed in The Death of Ivan Ilyich
The exploration of the consequences of a superficial existence is a central theme in The Death of Ivan Ilyich. The novella vividly depicts the impact of living a life dictated by societal expectations and external appearances. Here’s a deeper look at this theme:
Emptiness and Lack of Fulfillment:
Ivan Ilyich’s life, built on conforming to societal norms and pursuing material success, is ultimately revealed to be empty and devoid of true fulfillment. Despite his achievements in the eyes of society, he experiences a profound sense of hollowness and dissatisfaction.
This sets forth the idea that a life lived solely for external validation can lead to a spiritual and emotional void.
Alienation and Isolation:
Ivan’s superficial existence distances him from genuine human connections. His relationships are primarily transactional, lacking depth and emotional intimacy.
The consequences of this alienation become apparent as he faces illness and death. This provokes us to consider the importance of authentic relationships and the potential isolation that may result from prioritizing superficial connections.
Friendships based on one’s status, wealth, or the profit they could bring, will eventually prove to be worthless. Deep connections are never about what you have, but what you are from within.
The Mask of Conformity:
Tolstoy portrays social norms and societal expectations as a mask that individuals wear to fit in. Ivan’s adherence to this mask covers his true self and creates a façade of success. As the consequences of his choice unfold, we are encouraged to reflect on the masks we may be wearing in our lives and the authenticity we sacrifice along the way.
Isn’t it ironic? The more approval we gain from our society, the less authentic we will become. Fitting in should not be the ultimate goal for us, on the contrary, we should find our unique place in this vast universe to live an authentic life. Nonetheless, many of us seek superficial identities just to fit in, without realizing that we are losing our true selves in the process.
Regret and Existential Crisis:
Ivan’s realization of the consequences of his superficial existence leads to a profound existential crisis. Tolstoy explores the theme of regret as Ivan reflects on the choices he has made and has not made that have ultimately shaped the course of his life.
When you prioritize societal expectations over personal fulfillment, there is a chance you are going to regret the life you have lived and wish you had lived it differently, more freely, and courageously.
The Superficiality of Social Hierarchies
The novella critiques the superficial nature of social hierarchies and the pursuit of status. Ivan’s climb up the social ladder is portrayed as a futile endeavor that ironically does not bring lasting happiness.
The point is that societal structures, social norms and societal expectations that prioritize external markers of success over inner contentment and authenticity have proven to be ineffective. High-status individuals are not necessarily the happy ones, and vice versa. Those who leave university and look for better ways to realize their goals and ambitions are not out of their mind. And those who stay in jobs they find excruciating just because they are highly valued are not necessarily living their ideal lives. To live an authentic life does not necessarily mean following in the footsteps of others.
Impact on Physical and Mental Wellbeing
Ivan’s superficial lifestyle has a tangible effect on his physical and mental well-being. The stress and dissatisfaction associated with his chosen path contribute to his deteriorating health.
This aspect of the narrative prompts us to consider the interconnectedness of physical and mental health with the authenticity of one’s choices in life.
A large part of the burden we carry every day, the anguish, the anxiety, and the depression we harbor, can be traced back to unfulfilled desires, fear of being judged and rejected, and doing what does not suit us mentally or physically. What if we could be whoever we wanted to be, fearlessly and authentically? I’m sure our health would improve drastically.
The Search for Redemption to Live an Authentic Life
In the face of mortality, Ivan embarks on a quest for spiritual redemption. The consequences of his superficial existence become a catalyst for seeking meaning and purpose.
Tolstoy invites us to reflect on our own capacity for change and growth, even in the face of past choices that may have led to a superficial existence, an unfulfilled life.
The good news is, even our failures can serve as opportunities for growth, for reevaluation and maybe redemption. There and then, a sense of purpose might emerge. When you realize the truth of your mortality and the fleeting essence of life, that is when you might come to this realization that you only live once and you might as well live it fully, authentically, and bravely.
3. The Importance of Authentic Relationships
Tolstoy’s The Death of Ivan Ilyich emphasizes the profound impact of genuine human connections on one’s well-being and the overall quality of life. Here’s a closer look at the importance of authentic relationships in the narrative:
Emotional Fulfillment
Ivan Ilyich’s life is initially characterized by superficial relationships that lack emotional depth. As he faces his mortality, he comes to realize the emptiness of these connections. This springs from the notion that having authentic relationships that provide emotional fulfillment, genuine understanding and meaningful companionship is in fact one of the most crucial prerequisites to a healthy mind.
If you have ever experienced the taste of a true friendship, a reciprocal connection in which you feel like you could share anything to that person, rely on them and feel understood, you probably know how emotionally fulfilled one can become.
Why not reflect on the quality of our relationships and the emotional richness they bring to us? That is the message of The Death of Ivan Ilyich if we take a closer look at it.
Shallowness of Social Facades
So, Tolstoy criticizes relationships built on social norms, superficial appearances and benefits. Ivan’s interactions with colleagues and acquaintances are portrayed as transactional and devoid of genuine connection.
His shallow relationships contribute to his sense of isolation as he grapples with an impending death to an absurd injury. What Tolstoy is trying to depict here is the potential loneliness that accompanies a lack of authentic connections.
Authentic relationships are characterized by empathy and compassion, qualities often absent in Ivan’s earlier interactions. The novella essentially suggests that true understanding and empathy are essential components of meaningful bonds and by cultivating these qualities one will eventually foster an environment of mutual support and compassion.
4. The Nature of Suffering
Leo Tolstoy delves into the various dimensions of suffering, both physical and existential, offering his readers an insight into the human experience. Here’s what we can grasp from this theme:
Physical Suffering:
Ivan Ilyich’s physical ailment becomes a symbol of the inherent vulnerability of the human body. Tolstoy vividly describes Ivan’s progressively worsening health, the pain he endures, and the medical interventions that offer little relief.
The depiction of physical suffering reminds us of the inevitable aspect of mortality and the challenges associated with the deteriorating human body.
Existential Angst and Spiritual Suffering
Beyond the physical, the novella explores existential suffering. Ivan grapples with profound questions about the meaning of life, the inevitability of death, and the choices he has made.
His existential angst becomes a form of spiritual suffering as he confronts the consequences of this superficial, unexamined life he has been leading.
What this ultimately implies is that avoiding life’s deeper questions can bring about spiritual consequences in the long run. Turning a blind eye to matters more profound than mundane preoccupations sooner or later will take its toll, that’s for sure.
Ivan initially attempts to avoid confronting his sufferings by engaging in superficial pursuits. Tolstoy, however, illustrates the futility of such avoidance, as suffering remains an inherent part of the human experience
The Isolation of Suffering
Tolstoy emphasizes the isolating nature of suffering, both physical and existential. Despite having relationships, Ivan finds himself increasingly alone in his pain.
The narrative underscores the difficulty of conveying one’s suffering to others and the isolating impact of facing mortality. As most human beings deep in their hearts acknowledge that we set foot on this world alone and we die alone. Yet, this piece of information is not fully embraced by some. Some try to cling to temporary pleasures, to avoid the isolation of suffering. However, there is no way out. Suffering makes you isolated and that is part of life. We should go through it alone.
The Redemptive Power of Suffering; Facing Mortality and Finding Meaning
As Ivan faces the inevitability of death, he grapples with finding meaning in his suffering. This existential quest becomes central to his understanding of life’s purpose.
In other words, Ivan’s suffering becomes a catalyst for his spiritual transformation. As he grapples with pain and existential despair, he embarks on a journey of self-discovery and seeks redemption.
As I mentioned earlier, Tolstoy suggests that suffering, when approached with introspection and acceptance, has the potential to lead to personal growth and a deeper understanding of life’s meaning.
The message of The Death of Ivan Ilyich is clear. The novella is a call for self-examination. Haven’t you ever thought of critically evaluating your life? Tolstoy’s The Death of Ivan Ilyich urges us to engage in introspection and take a closer look at the significance of self-examination in the context of our lives:
The Universality of Suffering
The Death of Ivan Ilyich portrays suffering as a universal human experience. Ivan’s journey is not isolated; rather, it reflects the broader human condition.
We are invited to empathize with Ivan’s suffering and recognize the shared aspect of our struggles. Each one of us can be Ivan and this reminds us of the universality of human suffering and the interconnectedness of our experiences.
Two Indirect Movie Adaptations based on The Death of Ivan Ilyich
1. Ikiru by Akira Kurosawa
“Ikiru” translates to “To Live” in English, encapsulating the central theme of the film— the pursuit of a meaningful life. It is based on Tolstoy’s narrative, but in a Japanese context.
Ikiru by Akira Kurosawa follows the story of Kanji Watanabe, a middle-aged bureaucrat in post-war Tokyo. Diagnosed with stomach cancer, Watanabe confronts the reality of his mortality. Faced with the prospect of imminent death, he embarks on a quest to find purpose and meaning in his remaining days.
Watanabe’s journey leads him to consider the bureaucratic red tape and inefficiencies within the government office where he works. Determined to make a lasting impact, he decides to navigate the bureaucratic hurdles to create a children’s playground in a neglected part of the city. Through this project, Watanabe seeks to leave behind a tangible legacy that will outlast his own life.
Ikiru by Akira Kurosawa is a deep exploration of existentialist themes. Watanabe’s confrontation with mortality prompts him to question the purpose of his life and the impact he has had on others. The film explores the existential quest for meaning and significance in the face of inevitable death.
Kurosawa offers a scathing critique of bureaucracy and inefficiency in Ikiru. Watanabe’s frustration with the bureaucratic obstacles mirrors Kurosawa’s own critique of post-war Japanese society. The film reflects on the dehumanizing aspects of bureaucracy and the potential for positive change.
Watanabe’s desire to create a children’s playground becomes a symbolic representation of the human desire for a lasting legacy. The film examines the significance of one’s contributions to society and the potential for individuals to make a positive impact even in the face of institutional challenges.
Kurosawa employs a narrative structure that combines the present-day story of Watanabe’s final days with flashbacks that reveal the events leading up to his illness. This structure provides a comprehensive view of Watanabe’s life and choices, emphasizing the impact of his decisions on his present state.
The film’s enduring relevance lies in its universal themes and the timeless questions it raises about the nature of life and the pursuit of meaning.
In summary, Ikiru by Akira Kurosawa is a cinematic gem that transcends cultural boundaries. Through Watanabe’s poignant journey, Kurosawa invites viewers to reflect on their own lives, purpose, and the pursuit of a meaningful existence. The film remains a testament to Kurosawa’s storytelling prowess and his ability to capture the complexities of the human experience on screen.
The Last Step by Ali Mosaffa
The Last Step by Ali Mosaffa is an Iranian adaptation of The Death of Ivan Ilyich. The Iranian actor and filmmaker, Ali Mosaffa, has chosen The Dead, the final short story from James Joyce’s short story collection, Dubliners (which I am not going to delve into in this post), in addition to The Death of Ivan Ilyich as his sources of inspiration for his independent movie, Pelleh Akhar, in Persian.
It is a postmodern narrative of a man Called Khosrow, who has recently died, and his wife who is a popular actress. The story is narrated by Khosrow himself through multiple flashbacks and flashforwards, reminding us of the stream of consciousness used in many modern Western works of literature.
Apparently, Khosrow has died from a trivial accident and now he is reminiscing some of his life’s events. What Mosaffa portrays through his protagonist, Khosrow, is a life not fully lived, dreams not realized and desires unfulfilled.
Khosrow finds himself in a marriage with a woman who is apparently in love with the idea of another man. The three words Khosrow uses to describe his own life are: “empty, ordinary, horrible”. As an architect who has been obsessed with details and trivial matters related to buildings all his life, he admits there is nothing more to his life. He “had never lived courageously”, and never “fell in a passionate love”.
The film primarily focuses on the “dead” living among us through our memories, or the ideas of absent beings who are still present in our minds (a reference to Joyce’s masterpiece, The Dead). But more profoundly, it delves into the meaning of life, death and mortality.
Khosrow who has mistakenly been told that he has cancer and is running out of time (a lie he is told!), is ironically relieved to hear such news. He finally finds the courage to do some of the things he had never dared to do before, such as skateboarding, which serves as an impressive symbol of playfulness throughout the film, or stepping up for himself and punching a guy who used to bully him during his childhood. He feels at ease like he has been reborn. The irony is how playfully the protagonist narrates the events that had led to his death, from which he is not really sad or depressed.
After hearing the news of his impending death, he comes to the realization that he hasn’t actually lived a joyous life. He remarks that all his life he had been depressed and had no idea the news of his impending death would be the cure to his misery.
All he had been doing was building and obsessing over the measurements of different parts of the buildings he designed. Surprisingly though, the reason for his sudden death is not cancer at all. Although he is hit in the head by his wife Leili after an argument, he apparently trips and falls on the last step of a house he has designed and built. The last step, whose measurements did not turn out to be as accurate as he wished. However, it is not clear what led to his death, the concussion after the argument or falling.
But one thing we do know is that Khosrow existential angst, his worries about his place in this world, his position in his wife’s life, his rivalry with another man, and his purpose in life all go away the moment he faces his mortality.
His relief gives him a new purpose, a sense of relief. That is the ultimate meaning one can perceive from life. We are mortal and one day, all will be lost. However, we are given a chance to live. Therefore, why not use it to live an authentic life? To live in a way that appeals to us most. That is the implied message in The Last Step by Ali Mosaffa and he has definitely done a perfect job showing that.
In conclusion, Tolstoy’s The Death of Ivan Ilyich remains a timeless exploration of existential themes, and the human condition, inviting readers into the profound contemplation of life, death, and the pursuit of authentic meaning. Through the poignant narrative of Ivan Ilyich, Tolstoy challenges social norms and societal expectations, criticizes the consequences of a superficial existence, and prompts us to engage in self-examination.
The novella’s enduring relevance lies in its ability to provoke introspection and spark discussions on existential themes that resonate across cultures and generations. As we accompany Ivan on his journey from conformity to self-discovery, we are compelled to reflect on our own lives, relationships, and the choices that define our existence. The Death of Ivan Ilyich serves not only as a literary masterpiece but as a profound mirror that encourages us to seek authenticity, embrace the depth of human connection, and confront the ultimate questions of our existence. So, if you are looking for ways to live an authentic life, maybe it is time to read this novella and learn from Ivan’s life. And possibly his death!