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Cold beer Quote by Fyodor Dostoyevsky

“Raskolnikov went out in complete confusion. This confusion became more and more intense. As he went down the stairs, he even stopped short, two or three times, as though suddenly struck by some thought. When he was in the street he cried out, "Oh, God, how loathsome it all is! and can I, can I…” quote by Fyodor Dostoyevsky
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““Raskolnikov went out in complete confusion. This confusion became more and more intense. As he went down the stairs, he even stopped short, two or three times, as though suddenly struck by some thought. When he was in the street he cried out, "Oh, God, how loathsome it all is! and can I, can I possibly… . No, it's nonsense, it's rubbish!" he added resolutely. "And how could such an atrocious thing come into my head? What filthy things my heart is capable of. Yes, filthy above all, disgusting, loathsome, loathsome!—and for a whole month I've been… ." But no words, no exclamations, could express his agitation. The feeling of intense repulsion, which had begun to oppress and torture his heart while he was on his way to the old woman, had by now reached such a pitch and had taken such a definite form that he did not know what to do with himself to escape from his wretchedness. He walked along the pavement like a drunken man, regardless of the passers-by, and jostling against them, and only came to his senses when he was in the next street. Looking round, he noticed that he was standing close to a tavern which was entered by steps leading from the pavement to the basement. At that instant two drunken men came out at the door, and abusing and supporting one another, they mounted the steps. Without stopping to think, Raskolnikov went down the steps at once. Till that moment he had never been into a tavern, but now he felt giddy and was tormented by a burning thirst. He longed for a drink of cold beer, and attributed his sudden weakness to the want of food. He sat down at a sticky little table in a dark and dirty corner; ordered some beer, and eagerly drank off the first glassful. At once he felt easier; and his thoughts became clear.””

Fyodor Dostoyevsky

About This Quote

Source Novel: Crime and Punishment, 1866

Raskolnikov is overwhelmed by guilt and self-loathing, leading to irrational cravings and a desperate search for relief.

In simple terms: He feels intense guilt and seeks escape through drinking.

Key Takeaway

Acknowledge and confront inner turmoil.

Themes

guilt psychology existential crisis addiction

Mood

somber introspective

Type

literary psychological

When to use this quote

  • literary analysis
  • psychotherapy
  • personal reflection

Key Concepts

moral conflict self‑destruction coping mechanisms

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does his drinking symbolize?
  • How can guilt be constructively addressed?
A Different Perspective

The narrative may dramatize suffering beyond realistic coping.

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