Celebrating Dostoevsky and Honoring Veterans

Quick Smiles:

• Dostoevsky’s novels reach readers worldwide and inspire deep reflection on human nature.
• The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier honors the bravery and sacrifice of unidentified service members.
• Historic moments include The Beatles’ album completion and the ordination of women in the Church of England.

Fyodor Dostoevsky, born 204 years ago in Moscow, is recognized by many as one of the greatest novelists in history, with his works translated into more than 170 languages. His books are cherished across the globe, and his insight into human nature continues to resonate today.

Despite facing hardship—including a death sentence and years in exile—Dostoevsky persisted, producing influential works that have inspired generations.

“The only psychologist from whom I had something to learn,”

said Friedrich Nietzsche about Dostoevsky, highlighting the author’s profound understanding of the human psyche.

“Now I ask you: what can be expected of man since he is a being endowed with strange qualities?… It is just his fantastic dreams, his vulgar folly that he will desire to retain, simply in order to prove to himself–as though that were so necessary–that men still are men and not the keys of a piano…”

Today is also Veterans Day, a time set aside in the U.S. and other countries to remember and honor the service of military personnel. In Arlington National Cemetery, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier was dedicated 104 years ago as a place of tribute for American service members whose remains have not been identified.

The Tomb, watched over by guards every hour since 1937, holds a special significance as a symbol of respect and remembrance. This week, for the first time in nearly a century, the public was invited to lay flowers at the site, deepening the connection to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

On this day, history also marks the publication of Hans Christian Andersen’s The Ugly Duckling, the completion of The Beatles’ Rubber Soul album, and milestones for countries gaining independence and progress on social change.

Take a moment to reflect on these moments of inspiration, courage, and enduring legacy.

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