Turgenovsky is second-rate writer whose literary aspirations far outweigh his talents. When arrested with student friends, he is drawn into revolutionary circles more through chance than conviction, having an unwitting impact on the earth-shattering events taking place around him. During the Civil War, he denounces another writer, steals his manuscript, and rises to the summit of Soviet society, eventually coming under Stalin's patronage. The future Party leader realizes how useful this ambitious young man could be, and writes articles under his name, criticizing anyone opposed to his own political views. Scarred by a brutal upbringing and an unrequited passion for his half-sister, Turgenovsky never lets anybody get too close. He has lovers and colleagues arrested if they threaten to expose him as a fraud.