The Overcoat | Nikolai Gogol | Number of pages: 87 This book Nikolai Vasilyevich Gogol is considered the father of Russian realism, but in The Overcoat, he combined realistic elements with surreal, unrealistic, and supernatural elements (especially in its ending). This story, with its symbolism, metaphors, and strong plot, has influenced Russian and Western writers who came after him, as it is considered a masterpiece belonging to timeless literature that is suitable for all times and places.