The article analyses the problems and compositional structure of Anxiety by contemporary Turkish fiction writer Zülfü Livaneli (2017). It determines the work is structured as a moral investigation novel, which was first introduced in Turkish literature by Oğuz Atay in the 1970s and further developed by Livaneli in his own way. The special form of narration as a journalist's report to consider axiological issues is evaluated. The principal character is a journalist from Istanbul who is collecting information on his deceased friend. He organizes, assesses it and presents to the readers through the lens of national identity, i.e. where he and other Turks belong – in the East or the West. His self-reflection manifests through both the questions addressed to his interlocutors (during interviews) and to himself (in his inner monologues). The article accentuates the narrative form of the novel, defining its stylistics as rather close to the publicist style. This is supported by numerous documentary digressions from the journalist’s narration and first-hand accounts. It is argued that the documents expand the scope of the problems covered by the novel, contribute to their urgency and dramatic effect. The analysis of the novel’s artistic features shows that current socio-political issues are underpinned by deep axiological themes that define the content of the book. The axiology of the book is realized through the main character, Istanbul journalist Ibrahim, who extrapolates the events that happened to Hussein, his childhood friend, to his own life and tries to comprehend the anxiety tormenting his own soul. As Hussein’s murder is investigated, Ibrahim experiences growing anxiety, confusion, and frustration. The journalist compares himself to Hussein, who was calm and steady person with an unwavering faith in justice. Ibrahim’s attempt to understand Hussein’s actions brings a realization that his friend remained honourable and honest till the end of his life. He was kind and helped everyone in need. He did not give up on his love, did not bend his convictions even under the threat of death. Hussein’s last words are symptomatic in this regard: “I was a human being.” And this is why Ibrahim tries to behave like Hussein, to transform into Hussein, to become the same kind of person Hussein was.