"The Queen of Spades" is a short story written by Russian author Alexander Pushkin in 1833. It tells the tale of a young officer named Hermann, who becomes obsessed with learning a secret that can help him win at gambling. The story explores themes of greed, obsession, and the supernatural. The plot centers around an elderly countess who is rumored to have discovered a winning card combination. Hermann's pursuit of this knowledge leads him to a series of dramatic events, ultimately revealing the consequences of his desires. The story is considered a classic of Russian literature and has inspired various adaptations.