Novels may represent a source of data for medical education and can be a tool against reductionist, as well as medicine only-focused, thinking. This discussion paper reviews Tolstoy’s “Kreutzer Sonata” with reference to the ongoing COVID-10 pandemic. Medicine may be perceived by some people as a force that breaks social ties and destabilizes. Being aware of the existence of such people may favourably modify the ways of formulating health-promoting recommendations at the general level and individual conversation with the patient. Reading the novel can enrich and empower medical professionals directly involved in encouraging vaccination and other preventive measures.