La dame de pique (The Queen of Spades)

"La Dame de Pique" ("The Queen of Spades") is a short story by Alexander Pushkin that explores themes of obsession, luck, and the supernatural. It follows a man named Hermann who becomes fixated on uncovering a secret to winning at cards, believing it involves the mysterious number three. His pursuit leads him to learn about an old countess rumored to possess this secret. His obsession results in psychological torment and tragedy, highlighting the dangers of greed and obsession. The story is a blend of realism and Gothic elements, illustrating how obsession can distort reality and lead to destructive outcomes.