"Day of the Oprichnik" is a novel by Russian author Vladimir Sorokin, set in a dystopian future where Russia is ruled by a totalitarian regime. The story follows an oprichnik, a member of a secret police force, as he navigates a society marked by violence, corruption, and a return to medieval practices. The narrative explores themes of power, identity, and the consequences of authoritarianism. The protagonist's daily life is filled with brutal tasks, including enforcing the regime's will and punishing dissenters. The novel uses surreal and grotesque imagery to depict the oppressive atmosphere, reflecting on the historical Oprichnina of the 16th century under Ivan the Terrible. Through this lens, Sorokin critiques contemporary Russian politics and society.