Henryk Sienkiewicz is famous for his sweeping historical novels, but 'Se kolmas' (often translated as 'In Vain') shows a completely different side of him. Published in 1872, it's a witty, almost satirical peek into the bohemian art world of his time.

The Story

The plot follows Augustinovich, a young and talented but perpetually broke painter. He's full of grand artistic ideas but is constantly tripped up by the mundane realities of life—mainly, a lack of money and a surplus of romantic entanglements. His best friend and fellow artist, Ladislaus, acts as a slightly more grounded counterpart, though he's not immune to drama either. The story is less about a single, huge event and more about the series of comic missteps, failed schemes, and artistic dilemmas they face as they navigate love, patronage, and their own ambitions. Will Augustinovich ever finish a serious painting, or will he forever be distracted by the next pretty face or get-rich-quick idea?

Why You Should Read It

What surprised me most was how fresh it feels. The 'starving artist' trope is alive and well today, and Sienkiewicz captures its absurdities with a light touch and genuine affection. Augustinovich is frustrating but impossible to dislike—you root for him even as he makes another questionable choice. The book isn't a deep psychological study; it's a character-driven comedy of errors. It’s fun to see Sienkiewicz, before his Nobel Prize, just having a good time poking fun at a world he likely knew well. The humor is gentle and situational, built on the gap between artistic ideals and human folly.

Final Verdict

This is a perfect pick for a reader's palate cleanser. If you want a break from dense, serious literature but still want something with literary merit, this is it. It's ideal for anyone who enjoys character comedies, has an interest in the artistic process (or the lack thereof), or is a fan of Sienkiewicz and wants to see his range. Don't go in expecting 'Quo Vadis.' Go in expecting a clever, short, and genuinely amusing story about two friends trying to figure out life and art, usually in that order.