What Will Be the Last Thing You Remember? A Dive into Boris Akunin's Intricate Historical Thriller

Boris Akunin, a pen name for Grigory Chkhartishvili, is arguably one of Russia’s most celebrated contemporary authors. His prolific career spans various genres, from historical fiction to fantasy, but it is his Erast Fandorin series that truly cemented his place in the literary world. Within this series lies “What Will Be the Last Thing You Remember?”, a masterful tapestry woven from mystery, intrigue, and historical detail.

This particular novel plunges readers into the heart of fin-de-siècle Russia, a time ripe with social upheaval and political tensions. Our protagonist, the ever-charming and intellectual Erast Fandorin, finds himself entangled in a web of deception and murder while on a seemingly innocuous vacation in the sun-drenched Caucasus Mountains.

A Labyrinth of Deception

The novel opens with Fandorin seeking solace from his demanding investigative work in the bustling city of St. Petersburg. He travels to Kislovodsk, a renowned health resort known for its healing springs and breathtaking scenery. However, tranquility is a fleeting commodity. Fandorin soon encounters a cast of intriguing characters:

• Countess Anastasia Nikolaevna: A captivating beauty with a hidden past, entangled in a whirlwind romance.
• Colonel von Lemke: An enigmatic German officer harboring dark secrets.
• Prince Alexei Alexandrovich: A troubled nobleman struggling with addiction and guilt.
• The Shadowy “M”: A mysterious figure orchestrating events from the sidelines.

As Fandorin delves deeper into the lives of these individuals, he uncovers a series of bizarre events: strange occurrences, whispered rumors, and ultimately, a brutal murder.

A Masterful Blend of Genres:

“What Will Be the Last Thing You Remember?” transcends the boundaries of traditional mystery fiction. Akunin masterfully weaves together elements of romance, adventure, and social commentary to create a captivating narrative. The novel’s historical setting is meticulously researched, providing readers with an immersive glimpse into late 19th-century Russia.

Akunin’s prose is both elegant and engaging. He expertly balances suspenseful twists with moments of poignant reflection. His characters are vividly drawn, each possessing unique motivations and complexities that propel the story forward. The novel’s title itself is a powerful symbol, hinting at the fragile nature of memory and the inevitability of consequences.

Themes and Interpretations:

“What Will Be the Last Thing You Remember?” explores several thought-provoking themes:

• The Burden of Secrets: Each character carries a secret that weighs heavily on their conscience. These hidden truths ultimately contribute to the tragedy that unfolds.
• Appearance vs. Reality: Akunin expertly crafts a world where appearances are deceiving. Characters often mask their true intentions, leading Fandorin and the reader down a labyrinthine path of discovery.
• The Inevitability of Fate: Despite Fandorin’s brilliant deduction skills, there is a sense that certain events are predetermined. The novel suggests that fate, or perhaps destiny, plays a significant role in shaping our lives.

Production Features:

Published in 2001, “What Will Be the Last Thing You Remember?” quickly gained critical acclaim and commercial success in Russia. It has since been translated into numerous languages, including English, French, German, and Spanish, introducing Akunin’s unique brand of historical mystery to a global audience.

The novel is often praised for its:

• Intricate Plot: The story unfolds with meticulous precision, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the very last page.
• Compelling Characters: From the charming Fandorin to the enigmatic Countess Anastasia, Akunin’s characters are memorable and relatable.
• Rich Historical Detail: Akunin’s portrayal of late 19th-century Russia is both accurate and captivating, transporting readers to another time and place.

Beyond the Page:

“What Will Be the Last Thing You Remember?” has inspired various adaptations, including a popular Russian miniseries. The novel’s enduring popularity speaks to Akunin’s ability to create engaging stories that resonate with readers across cultures and generations.