Oblomov, the story of a so-called "superflous man," was written by Ivan Goncharov to illustrate the idle life of one Russian nobleman.
Stephen Pearl's translation of Oblomov complete with a forward by Tatyana Tolstaya, is said to be "livelier" than previous English translations, "elegant and witty," and "highly recommended." However, the same people who applaud the translation also call Oblomov a "masterpiece." I'm sure some agree that this long, long story about a lazy Russian nobleman is a masterpiece, but I'm not sure it's recommended reading.
Professors of Russian literature will tell you that reading Oblomov is good for you. Maybe it is, if only to make you appreciate other Russian novels of the 19th century more. Oblomov centers around the main character of the same name, whose favorite occupations are eating and sleeping. He even loses his girl to his irresponsible nature and apathetic attitude. If this new translation livens up the novel in any way, then the translator deserves all the praise in the world.
