The Compromise stretches the boundaries of what constitutes a novel. Largely autobiographical, it mirrors the life of the author, following his journey as a human interest reporter for the Tallinn newspaper Soviet Estonia from 1973 to 1976. Though the newspaper isn't explicitly named, and some names are altered, the narrative takes on a fictional tone that invites readers to view it as a novel.

Structure and Style

One key reason The Compromise barely fits the novel classification is its concise length, coming in at under 150 pages. It comprises eleven sections, each labeled as a "compromise," which read more like standalone short stories. Several of these chapters were even published in magazines prior to the book's release. Each section follows a compelling format: it begins with a brief, dated article originally penned by Sergei Dovlatov for the Estonian paper, then delves into the "story behind the story," varying from three to thirty-seven pages in length. These narratives reveal the vivid characters behind the newspaper’s mundane reports, recount instances where Dovlatov clashed with his boss, Turonok, over political insensitivity, and describe amusing escapades involving interviews with various colorful individuals.

Character and Plot Development

The book’s episodic, picaresque journey introduces a host of minor characters, making it hard to classify as a traditional novel. Nevertheless, the narrator's consistent persona shines through, evolving morally as he grapples with the challenges of being a journalist constrained by the impossibility of truth-telling. A cousin, previously convicted of manslaughter, repeatedly urges him to pursue a "useful" career, challenging him with lines such as, "Aren’t you ashamed of what you do?... All I did was kill a man,...and try to burn his body. But you!"

Interpersonal Dynamics

Adding to the narrative's depth is the presence of several of Dovlatov’s colleagues, which brings continuity, and his mistress, Marina, who provides insight into his personal life. While the relationship with Marina never becomes central to the plot, it suggests an increasing pressure for marriage and personal growth, as the narrator resorts to heavy drinking to fend off the impending reality of middle-aged responsibility. The depiction of his personal life—struggling with alimony, donning unremarkable attire, and suffering from constant hangovers—poses the question: will he ever change?

Journalistic Themes

At its core, The Compromise is a meditation on journalism itself. Dovlatov likens journalism to a placid river, cautioning readers not to overlook the debris lurking beneath its surface. He observes, "Journalism has its perpetually open markets, commissioned stores, and even flea markets. Which is to say, the selling-out is always going on, full blast." The anecdotes filled with political foolishness might suggest a critique of the Soviet system, yet the book's consistent humor, reminiscent of Gogol, points to a critique of broader human folly, including Dovlatov’s own shortcomings.

Reflections on Society

Despite the potential for bitterness given his eventual forced emigration in 1978, Dovlatov maintains an unexpectedly forgiving stance toward his homeland and humanity at large. The book’s real subject remains the practice of journalism, which offers a glimpse into Soviet society as Dovlatov saw it: a place where "there are no angels or villains... no sinners or saints." Through this lens, he presents an unvarnished view of the human condition, capturing the complexity and contradictions of life in the Soviet Union.