Darkness at Noon – by Arthur Koestler

Darkness at Noon is a powerful political novel by Arthur Koestler, first published in 1940, and regarded as one of the most influential anti-totalitarian works of the 20th century. Set during the Stalinist purges in the Soviet Union, it follows the story of Nicolas Rubashov, an old Bolshevik who is imprisoned and interrogated for alleged betrayal of the Party.

Through Rubashov’s reflections, interrogations, and moral conflicts, Koestler explores themes of individual conscience vs political loyalty, the cost of ideology, and the terrifying logic behind totalitarian regimes. The novel is philosophical, intense, and thought-provoking—an essential read for students of politics, ethics, and modern history.