This article examines the creative history of L. N. Andreev's story In the Basement. An unpublished original draft is presented. The differences between this text and the main one are outlined. A special emphasis is laid on the substantial changes in plot, structure, semantics (in particular, the motif of a sudden fl eeting enlightenment and the unity of the fallen people), as well as on the altered ending of the story. The author's screenplay based on the story is briefly described.