In her captivating preface, Edith Wharton reflects on discovering Futility and her initial reluctance to engage with another Russian-themed novel. Yet, as she delves deeper into the narrative, she finds herself amused, moved, and absorbed until the story reaches its poignant conclusion. Wharton praises Mr. Gerhardis remarkable ability to portray two vastly different cultures—the English and the Russian—with a sense of genuine objectivity. He captures their mutual perceptions and reactions, bringing to life a rich tapestry of empathy and understanding that resonates throughout the book.