The present book ‘The Kreutzer Sonata and Other Stories’ is a compandium of many short stories and short novellas written by famous English fiction writer graf Leo Tolstoy.
The four stories selected here represent Tolstoy ar his creative best, exploring in a specific and detailed way his characteristic themes: life understood as a journey of the discovery of identity and vocation, the meaning of one’s life in the face of death, and the redemptive role of suffering and compassion.
In this avant grade novella, Tolstoy rants against marriage as it existed in late 19th century in Russia. His diatribe is applicable–in some marriages–in other countries and other times, including the U.S. at present. 
The story is told by a man who can’t tolerate his wife to strangers on a train. His diatribe seems to go on forever, although there’s usually a new twist. 
Contents
The Kreutzer Sonata — Ivan the Fool — A Lost Opportunity — Polikushka — The Candle