Mikhail Bulgakov's A Dead Man's Diary, or Black Snow, is a posthumously published satirical novel offering a biting critique of the Soviet literary and theatrical world. Through the eyes of Sergei Leontyevich Maksudov, a struggling writer whose play is accepted by a prestigious Moscow theatre, Bulgakov exposes the absurdity, bureaucracy, and artistic compromises inherent in the system. The narrative, presented as Maksudov's diary entries, delves into the maddening process of theatrical production, from endless rehearsals and script revisions to the eccentricities of actors and directors. It's a darkly comedic and tragically insightful portrayal of an artist's struggle against overwhelming institutional control and personal despair, reflecting Bulgakov's own experiences with censorship and artistic suppression. This unfinished work remains a powerful testament to Bulgakov's satirical genius and his enduring relevance.