What a delightful surprise this book was, but then, isn't most Russian literature? I don't think I've had a bad one. I went in blind, not knowing anything about the plot or even genre. The story is a surreal, absurdist adventure about Satan and his colourful retinue who visit Moscow to enact all kinds of outrages against its citizens. There is an interweaving tale about the crucifixion of Christ, focusing on Pontius Pilate. Admittedly, these sections aren't as fun as the core narrative, but I suppose expecting comedy from such grave subject matter is too much to expect even from a raging atheist like Bulgakov. The story begins at the Patriarch Ponds where the poet Ivan Homeless is having a discussion with his critic friend Berlioz (not the composer) before they are joined by Satan, disguised as a Professor Woland. Wolan goes onto predict Berlioz's death by decapitation, which takes place very soon after on that same evening.
What follows is an exhilarating descent into madness and hijinks as the otherworldly forces take over an apartment to use as their base of operations. Although dealing with often grotesque happenings, the book manages to stay away from true horror, focusing more on humour and satire. There are giant anthropomorphic cats, naked vampires and witches, headless toastmasters, and whole theatre-loads of hypnotised patrons to deal with. The titular characters are a writer locked away in an insane asylum for attempting to publish a novel on Pontius Pilate, and his lover, Margarita, the only one who believes in his work. These two are taken under wing of Satan, who has decided to become their benefactor. My only complaint about the book is that it can be very difficult to keep track of the huge cast of characters, particularly due to their confusingly similar Russian names. Overall, a thoroughly recommended read to all lovers of magical realism.
Rating: 4/5
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