White Nights was first published in 1848 and is set in St. Petersburg during the White Nights season, a period of near-constant twilight from mid-June to early July. The story follows a nameless young man, often called the Dreamer, who experiences loneliness and unrequited love over the course of four nights with a young woman named Nastenka. The narrative explores themes of isolation, romantic longing, and fleeting happiness, reflecting Dostoevsky’s early psychological sensitivity and lyrical style.