Yuri Trifonov's The Old Man intricately weaves past and present, juxtaposing the fierce recollections of the Russian Revolution with the mundane family disputes of 1973. Central to the narrative is Pavel Letunov, whose memories of tumultuous times are sparked by a letter, leading him to contemplate the nature of truth. The novel explores both grand historical events and the personal struggles within Pavel's family over a coveted piece of property.

Revisiting Revolutionary Times

Pavel, now an elderly man, finds himself reflecting on the fervent days of the Russian Revolution. Receiving a letter from his old friend Asya rekindles memories of a time when he, Asya, and her cousin Volodya fervently supported the Bolsheviks. They were consumed by the revolutionary spirit, joining protests and immersing themselves in the political upheaval. A significant figure during this time was Sergei Migulin, a revered revolutionary leader who became entangled in controversy and ultimately faced execution. Asya’s letter compels Pavel to re-evaluate the circumstances surrounding Migulin’s demise.

The Quest for Truth

Pavel's journey to uncover the truth about Migulin’s trial and fate becomes a central theme. Through this quest, the novel interrogates the very nature of truth itself. Is truth an absolute entity, or does it change with perspective and context? Could it be influenced by the prevailing ideologies of a particular era, or is it merely a construct of shifting circumstances?

A Youthful Infatuation

During his younger years, Pavel was deeply enamored with Asya, though his affections went largely unnoticed by her. The trio of Pavel, Asya, and Volodya shared a close bond, united by the revolutionary zeal that permeated Petrograd. They were caught up in the excitement and chaos, inspired by the revolutionary fervor of Pavel’s uncle Shura and his activist mother. Yet, the shadow of Migulin looms large over these memories, complicating Pavel’s reflections on those times.

The Execution of Migulin

Migulin’s fall from grace is a profound event in Pavel’s recollections. Once celebrated as a hero, Migulin was ultimately branded a traitor for defying orders during a critical moment. Despite initial reprieve, he faced execution, a fate that deeply impacted those involved, including Pavel. As a young revolutionary loyal to Asya and the cause, Pavel played a role in condemning Migulin, particularly as part of the tribunal that sealed Migulin’s fate. The complexities of his feelings, including possible jealousy over Asya’s love for Migulin, haunt Pavel later in life.

Decades Later: A Return to the Past

When Pavel reconnects with Asya after many years, he seeks answers about Migulin’s actions in 1919. Her perspective offers a personal truth that transcends the factual details: her enduring love for Migulin eclipses all other considerations. This reunion underscores the subjective nature of memory and how personal narratives shape our understanding of events.

The Family Conflict Over the Dacha

While Pavel delves into his past, a familial subplot unfolds around the acquisition of a dacha. His children, Vera and Ruslan, become obsessed with obtaining this summerhouse, seeing it as a symbol of success and happiness. Their relentless pursuit of the dacha and their insistence on using Pavel’s influence within the Communist Party to secure it disturb him. This clash highlights the contrasting values between Pavel’s revolutionary past and his children’s materialistic present.

The Rivalry and Its Futile Conclusion

Oleg Kandaurov, a formidable adversary in the dacha dispute, embodies a ruthless pragmatism. His manipulative tactics, however, are ultimately thwarted by his own failing health. In a twist of irony reminiscent of a Chekhov play, the government decides to commandeer the land for a new project. All the efforts from both Pavel’s family and Kandaurov unravel, leaving them with nothing.

Reflections on a Life Lived

Despite the disappointments and losses, Pavel takes solace in the richness of his life experiences and his resilience through life's trials. An encounter with a graduate student researching the Migulin affair reveals Pavel's selective memory regarding his role in the past events. This interaction serves to illustrate how belief and truth are often intertwined, sometimes indistinguishably so, shaping our understanding of history and self.