A short novel by the literary author Dostoevsky, noted for its deep intellectual insights. It tells the story of a young, low-ranked employee who is content with his fate despite his meager salary and weak condition.

One day, his boss assigns him a large amount of work, but he falls in love with an innocent girl, causing him to neglect his duties. This young man lives with his loyal friend, who adores him. He exaggerates his mistake in delaying his work submission, feeling it as a crime against his benefactor.

Overwhelmed with stress, he becomes intensely emotional and teeters on the edge of madness, fearing punishment through military service.