Poor Folk · Chapters
Chapters explained
Chapter companions for Poor Folk by Fyodor Dostoevsky.
Chapter 1
April 8th: My Dearest Barbara Alexievna
Makar writes to Barbara, expressing confusion over her teasing and defending his paternal feelings for her. He reflects on his past life in a cozy room with his old landlady and her granddaughter Masha, contrasting it with his current lodgings. He declines to visit her in person to avoid gossip, and asks her not to chide him for his uneducated letter.
Chapter 2
April 8th: My Beloved Makar Alexievitch
Barbara writes to Makar, gently scolding him for sending her expensive gifts like geraniums and bonbons, which she knows he cannot afford. She expresses concern for his living conditions and health, urging him to visit her in person. She also reflects on her own sadness and uncertainty about the future, haunted by past sorrows caused by wicked people.
Chapter 3
April 8th: My Dearest Barbara Alexievna
Makar writes to Barbara, expressing confusion over her teasing and defending his paternal feelings for her. He reflects on his past life in a cozy room with his old landlady and her granddaughter Masha, contrasting it with his current lodgings. He declines to visit her in person to avoid gossip, and asks her not to chide him for his uneducated letter.
Chapter 4
April 9th: My Dearest Makar Alexievitch
Barbara writes to Makar, expressing concern that he has taken her previous words as a jest and fallen into despondency. She reassures him of her gratitude for his protection and asks him not to be offended, while also mentioning her own illness and Thedora's worry.
Chapter 5
April 12th: Dearest Mistress Barbara Alexievna
Makar writes to Barbara, expressing concern for her health and describing his living quarters in detail. He recounts the unpleasant conditions of the house, the gambling habits of the other tenants, and the impoverished family of Gorshkov, whose silent suffering deeply moves him. He ends by lamenting his lack of education and his inability to write with style.
Chapter 6
April 25th: My Dearest Makar Alexievitch
Barbara writes to Makar about a distressing encounter with her cousin Sasha, who has been making inquiries about her and spreading cruel lies. Sasha claims that Makar has no right to be involved in Barbara's family affairs and that Barbara is living shamefully on his charity. She also defends Anna Thedorovna's past actions and blames Barbara for her own misfortunes, including the refusal of Monsieur Bwikov to marry her. Barbara is deeply upset, trembling and weeping, but tries to reassure Makar that she is not seriously ill, only having caught a cold while walking to Bolkovo to hear Mass for her mother.
Chapter 7
May 20th: My Dearest Little Barbara
Makar writes to Barbara, sending grapes and roses for her recovery, reassuring her about his health and finances, and addressing rumors spread by Thedora. He declines frequent visits due to fear of scandal, but promises a future rendezvous.
Chapter 8
June 1st: My Beloved Makar Alexievitch
Barbara sends Makar a manuscript detailing her past life, including her mother, Pokrovski, Anna Thedorovna, and her misfortunes, as a gift to repay his care and love. She expresses weariness and suffering from insomnia.
Chapter 9
I
Barbara Alexievna recounts her early childhood in the province of Tula, her family's move to St. Petersburg after her father's dismissal, his subsequent death, and their descent into poverty. She describes her unhappy boarding school experience and the family's eventual acceptance of help from the distant relative Anna Thedorovna.
Chapter 10
II
Barbara recounts the story of the elder Pokrovski buying books for his son's birthday, their joint gift of Pushkin's works, and the subsequent illness and death of the younger Pokrovski. She describes the old man's grief and her own sorrow during this period.
Chapter 11
June 11th: How I Thank You for Our Walk to the Islands Yesterday, Makar Alexievitch!
Barbara expresses gratitude to Makar for their walk to the Islands, describing the beauty of nature and her mixed feelings of happiness and sadness. She admits to being unwell and asks Makar to visit her often.
Chapter 12
June 12th: My Dearest Barbara Alexievna
Makar responds to Barbara's letter, praising her writing and reflecting on his thirty years of service. He recounts how he became a byword in his department, blamed for every mistake, and criticized for his appearance. He defends his work as a copyist, asserting his pride in earning his own bread, and expresses his devotion to Barbara, stating he does not care if he is likened to a rat as long as he is useful to her.
Chapter 13
June 20th: My Dearest Makar Alexievitch
Barbara writes to Makar urging him to buy a cheap uniform from a retired civil servant, scolding him for spending too much on gifts for her instead of on himself. She declines to continue her memoirs, finding the memories too painful, and expresses her distrust of Anna Thedorovna and Monsieur Bwikov, affirming her contentment with Makar and Thedora.
Chapter 14
June 21st: My Own, My Darling
Makar writes to Barbara, expressing his joy at living close to her and describing his happiness as if they were a family. He mentions sending her money, his neighbor Rataziaev's literary gathering, and his plan to buy her an embroidered cloak.
Chapter 15
June 22nd: My Dearest Barbara Alexievna
Makar writes to Barbara about the death of Gorshkov's nine-year-old son from scarlatina. He describes the family's dire poverty, the mother's grief, the father's tears, and the thoughtful little daughter standing by the coffin. Makar expresses his deep pity and helplessness at their suffering.
Chapter 16
June 25th: My Beloved Makar Alexievitch
Barbara returns a book to Makar, criticizing it as worthless and urging him not to waste money on such trash. She asks him to send something else to read and offers to share the cost.
Chapter 17
June 26th: My Dear Little Barbara
Makar writes to Barbara about his admiration for the writer Rataziaev, praising his literary works and describing the lively discussions at his gatherings. He shares excerpts from Rataziaev's stories, including 'Passion in Italy' and 'Ermak and Zuleika,' and muses about the possibility of becoming a writer himself, though he worries about his shabby appearance. He sends Barbara bonbons and promises to bring her a more suitable book, cautioning against Paul de Kock's novel.
Chapter 18
June 27th: My Dearest Makar Alexievitch
Barbara writes to Makar, seeking his advice on whether to accept a governess position offered through Thedora. She expresses anxiety about entering a strange household, her loneliness, and her declining health. She recalls her mother and fears dying in a strange place. She mentions selling a carpet for fifty roubles, plans to make a waistcoat for Makar, and sends him Pushkin's 'The Stories of Bielkin' while criticizing Rataziaev's works.
Chapter 19
June 28th: My Dearest Barbara Alexievna
Makar writes to Barbara, urging her to abandon melancholy and dismiss her thoughts of leaving. He insists she is healthy and blooming, and he will sacrifice his own comfort rather than see her in want. He defends his friend Rataziaev's literary merits and thanks her for sending a volume of Pushkin, promising to visit her soon.
Chapter 20
My Dear Makar Alexievitch
Barbara writes to Makar, explaining her decision to accept a post away from him, driven by a sense of guilt over being a burden. She reflects on her childhood loneliness at school and argues that her love, though deep, cannot repay his sacrifices, urging him to let her go.
Chapter 21
July 1st: Rubbish, Rubbish, Barbara!
Makar responds to Barbara's suggestion of leaving, insisting she stay and dismissing her concerns as rubbish. He argues that she is safe and loved, and that her departure would ruin him. He praises Pushkin's 'The Station Overseer,' identifying deeply with the character Samson Virin, and urges her to read it. He warns her against the dangers of strangers and pleads with her not to leave.
Chapter 22
My Dearest Makar Alexievitch
Barbara writes to Makar, sharing her joy at receiving fifteen roubles from Thedora and giving three back. She is busy making a waistcoat for Makar and sends him a book of stories, including 'The Cloak.' She considers his invitation to the theatre but worries about the cost, as Thedora hints that Makar is overspending. Barbara expresses concern about his financial situation and mentions rumors of unpaid bills to his landlady. She signs off, noting she will wear her new hat and black mantilla if they go.
Chapter 23
July 7th: My Dearest Barbara Alexievna
Makar writes to Barbara recounting his youthful infatuation with an actress, describing how he and his friends would go to the theatre, spend recklessly on perfumes and cabs, and obsessively follow her until he ruined himself financially and eventually lost interest.
Chapter 24
July 8th: My Dearest Barbara Alexievna
Makar Alexievitch returns a book sent by Barbara and expresses his distress and indignation at its portrayal of a poor clerk. He defends his own thirty years of irreproachable service, his humility, and his acceptance of his lowly station as ordained by God. He argues that the book's depiction is unrealistic and slanderous, fearing that such literature will expose his private life to ridicule and gossip. He insists that he lives quietly, without harming anyone, and that the world's hierarchy of rank and abuse is natural. He concludes by pleading with Barbara not to have sent him such a work.
Chapter 25
July 27th: My Dearest Makar Alexievitch
Barbara writes to Makar, expressing shock and dismay upon learning that he has been spending his entire salary and even selling his clothes to support her. She reproaches him for his lack of openness and for his recent drunken behavior, which led to him being brought home by the police. Barbara urges him to be comforted and to write frankly, while acknowledging her own role in his misfortunes.
Chapter 26
July 28th: My Priceless Barbara Alexievna
Makar writes to Barbara after a period of distress, expressing relief that they are returning to their old relationship. He emphasizes that his self-respect is paramount and that his superiors remain unaware of his misconduct. He fears gossip more than anything, but finds comfort in Barbara's continued respect. He mentions returning to work, his debts, and his poor wardrobe, and asks for another half-rouble if she can spare it, though the thought pains him. He promises to write more about his affair with the officers later.
Chapter 27
July 28th: Dearest Little Barbara
Makar writes to Barbara, defending his actions after his debauch and public humiliation. He explains that his distress was driven by rumors of an improper suitor visiting her, and recounts being thrown down the stairs by officers. He reflects on his pride, his love for her, and his sense of fate, while also noting his illness and loss of gaiety.
Chapter 28
July 29th: My Dearest Makar Alexievitch
Barbara responds to Makar's letters, expressing concern over his apparent mental distress and his omission of key details about his living situation. She urges him to visit her immediately and dine with her, reassuring him that Thedora is an excellent cook.
Chapter 29
August 1st: My Darling Barbara Alexievna
Makar writes to Barbara, defending his recent spendthrift behavior and reflecting on the psychological burdens of poverty. He describes the constant shame and suspicion that plague the poor, who feel they are always being watched and judged. He confesses his humiliation at work when his ragged appearance was noticed, and suspects his colleague Rataziaev of spreading gossip about him and Barbara. He dismisses novels as worthless, rejecting even Shakespeare as mere fodder for lampoons.
Chapter 30
August 2nd: My Dearest Makar Alexievitch
Barbara writes to Makar, urging him not to worry and informing him that Thedora has secured work for them both, which may help improve their financial situation. She suspects Anna Thedorovna is behind her recent misfortunes but feels cheerful. She advises Makar against borrowing more money and suggests he come live with them, dismissing his concerns about enemies and ill-wishers. She notes that his writing style varies from letter to letter.
Chapter 31
August 3rd: My Angel, Barbara Alexievna
Makar writes to Barbara, expressing renewed hope despite his dire financial straits. He recounts his failed attempt to borrow money from Peter Petrovitch, who humiliates him by ignoring his request. Emelia Ivanovitch offers encouragement and promises to recommend a moneylender in Viborskaia Street. Makar despairs over his shabby appearance and the threat of eviction.
Chapter 32
August 4th: My Beloved Makar Alexievitch
Barbara writes to Makar in desperation, recounting a visit from an elderly, decorated man who, under the guise of protection, made inappropriate advances and attempted to bribe her with money and promises of gifts. She realizes this is orchestrated by Anna Thedorovna and begs Makar to borrow twenty-five roubles so she and Thedora can move to escape the harassment.
Chapter 33
August 4th: My Beloved Barbara Alexievna
Makar writes to Barbara in a state of desperation, expressing his distress over the attacks on her and his own spirit. He vows to help her at any cost, proposing to borrow money and take on extra work, while detailing his own dire financial needs and the shame he feels at his appearance. He confesses his struggles with debt, his landlady's contempt, and his isolation at work, but finds strength in confiding in Barbara.
Chapter 34
August 5th: Dearest Makar Alexievitch
Barbara writes to Makar, urging him not to despair and sending him thirty kopecks. She expresses concern that he worries too much about her troubles at the expense of his own well-being, and advises him to be more hopeful. She also mentions Thedora's opinion about staying in their current lodging to avoid suspicion, though Barbara herself has reservations.
Chapter 35
August 5th: My Darling Little Barbara
Makar writes to Barbara recounting his failed attempt to borrow money from Monsieur Markov, describing his miserable walk through rain and sleet, his humiliation at Markov's refusal, and his distress over the petty indignities of his life. He reassures Barbara that he is not fainthearted, but confesses his suffering is for her sake and that his main concern is the opinion of others. He ends by reading her letters and feeling sad.
Chapter 36
August 11th: O Barbara Alexievna, I Am Undone
Makar writes in despair, feeling that both he and Barbara are ruined. He describes being publicly humiliated when a friend reads his private letter aloud, leading to mockery and the nickname 'Lovelace.' His landlady abuses him, and even the servant Phaldoni refuses to run errands, insulting him further. Makar feels his reputation and self-respect are destroyed, and he sees no hope for recovery.
Chapter 37
August 13th: My Beloved Makar Alexievitch
Barbara writes to Makar, describing a series of misfortunes: she burned her left hand with an iron, can no longer work, and Thedora has been ill for three days. She sends him thirty kopecks, nearly her last coins, and asks him to visit her for comfort.
Chapter 38
August 14th: What Is the Matter with You, Makar Alexievitch?
Barbara writes a desperate letter to Makar, pleading with him to stop his self-destructive behavior and excessive concern for reputation. She reveals that his drunkenness has led to public shame and gossip, and that she is considering leaving to work as a cook or laundress. She urges him to visit her, to repent, and to trust in God, sending him a small sum of money for tobacco.
Chapter 39
August 19th: My Dearest Barbara Alexievna
Makar writes to Barbara, expressing shame about his worn boots and appearance, but trying to dismiss their importance by referencing Greek sages. He defends himself against her concerns about his age, sends greetings from Emelia, and acknowledges mutual distress and tears, yet wishes for health and happiness.
Chapter 40
August 21st: My Dear and Kind Barbara Alexievna
Makar writes to Barbara, confessing his guilt and despair after accepting money from her despite her own hardship. He explains his encounter with the destitute Emelia and his feelings of worthlessness, but also expresses how Barbara's love has given him self-respect and meaning. He pleads for her understanding and forgiveness.
Chapter 41
September 3rd: The Reason Why I Did Not Finish My Last Letter, Makar Alexievitch, Was That I Found It So Difficult to Write
Barbara writes to Makar explaining why she couldn't finish her last letter, describing her difficulty in writing and her tendency to retreat into memories of her childhood. She vividly recalls autumns in the countryside, the pond, the forest, and the comforting home life with her family. These reminiscences leave her depressed and weak. She expresses a premonition of dying this coming autumn and feels ill and lonely, especially when left alone. She mentions that Thedora is out and she is afraid of being by herself. She ends by noting her financial constraints and urging Makar to repair his wardrobe.
Chapter 42
September 5th: My Beloved Barbara
Makar describes a gloomy walk along the Fontanka Canal and Gorokhovaia Street, contrasting the misery of the poor with the luxury of the rich. He reflects on Barbara's misfortune and his own feelings of humiliation. Later, he is visited by the impoverished Gorshkov, who begs for help, and he encounters a starving boy asking for alms. Makar uses these experiences to meditate on poverty, social injustice, and the dehumanizing effects of urban life.
Chapter 43
September 9th: My Dearest Barbara Alexievna
Makar writes to Barbara in a state of extreme agitation after a humiliating incident at his office. He had made a serious copying error on an important document and was summoned before his Excellency. In his panic, a button falls from his coat and rolls to the chief's feet, compounding his shame. However, his Excellency unexpectedly shows him kindness, giving him a hundred-ruble note and shaking his hand, an act that restores Makar's sense of self-worth and fills him with gratitude.
Chapter 44
September 10th: My Beloved Makar Alexievitch
Barbara expresses joy at Makar's good fortune and the kindness of his superior, urging him to live frugally and save for the future. She reassures him that she and Thedora will manage, and she plans to return most of the money he sent, keeping only what is necessary for moving expenses. She also mentions her weariness and invites him to visit.
Chapter 45
September 11th: My Darling Barbara Alexievna
Makar writes to Barbara, imploring her not to leave him now that his fortunes have improved. He describes a change for the better: his landlady is more accommodating, Theresa has recovered, Phaldoni is obedient, and he has reconciled with Rataziaev. He recounts telling others about his Excellency's kindness, though some laughed at his story. He expresses concern for Barbara's well-being and reflects on his past hardships, praying for forgiveness and thanking her for her support.
Chapter 46
September 15th: My Dearest Makar Alexievitch
Barbara writes to Makar in distress, reporting that Monsieur Bwikov has returned to St. Petersburg and has been inquiring about her whereabouts. Thedora confronted him, but he mocked her and Barbara's situation. Barbara fears his intentions and begs Makar to visit her.
Chapter 47
September 18th: My Beloved Barbara Alexievna
Makar writes to Barbara about the tragic events of the day. Their neighbor Gorshkov, after being fully exonerated of guilt and having his character restored, returns home in a state of agitation and joy. Despite the celebration, he dies suddenly and inexplicably, leaving his wife and daughter in shock. Makar is deeply affected by the senselessness of the death.
Chapter 48
September 19th: My Beloved Barbara Alexievna
Makar writes to Barbara with the good news that Rataziaev has found him work copying a manuscript for a writer, offering forty kopecks per sheet. He expresses hope that this extra income will help them, though he notes the manuscript is poorly written and difficult to decipher.
Chapter 49
September 23rd: My Dearest Makar Alexievitch
Barbara writes to Makar after three days of distress, recounting a visit from Bwikov who proposes marriage to restore her honor and take her to his country estate. Despite her anguish, she feels compelled to accept, seeing no other escape from poverty and ill health. She informs Makar of her unalterable decision, asking him not to dissuade her.
Chapter 50
September 23rd: My Beloved Barbara Alexievna
Makar responds to Barbara's news of Bwikov's proposal, expressing astonishment and resignation. He mentions Gorshkov's funeral, acknowledges Bwikov's noble act, and urges Barbara to accept. He worries about their future correspondence, advises her against going out in the rain, and plans to visit her after Bwikov leaves.
Chapter 51
September 27th: Dear Makar Alexievitch
Barbara writes to Makar in a state of distress and exhaustion, detailing the frantic preparations for her wedding to Bwikov, which is only five days away. She lists numerous errands for Makar to run, particularly regarding the ordering of linen blouses, lace, and tambour work from Madame Chiffon. Barbara expresses her anxiety about the future, her illness, and the disorder of her new flat, while also noting Bwikov's impatience and temper.
Chapter 52
September 27th: My Beloved Barbara Alexievna
Makar writes to Barbara, reporting that he has fulfilled her commissions regarding Madame Chiffon and the tambour work, though he is exhausted and did not go to the office. He urges her not to despair, assures her that Madame Chiffon will visit at seven o'clock, and expresses his longing to see her, noting that he passed by her home twice but is wary of Bwikov's temper.
Chapter 53
September 28th: My Dearest Makar Alexievitch
Barbara writes to Makar, instructing him to cancel the order for pearl and emerald earrings from the jeweller, as Monsieur Bwikov has deemed them too expensive and complains of being robbed. Bwikov has lost his temper, threatens to have only a plain wedding without festivities, and expresses regret about the marriage expenses. Barbara feels helpless and anxious about her future.
Chapter 54
September 28th: My Beloved Barbara Alexievna
Makar writes to Barbara, reporting that the matter with the jeweller is resolved. He also reveals that he has fallen ill with a chill and cannot rise from bed, just when many things need to be done. Additionally, he notes that his Excellency has become stricter and recently scolded Emelia Ivanovitch severely. Makar expresses his fear of obtruding upon Barbara's notice but shares his news nonetheless.
Chapter 55
September 29th: My Own Barbara Alexievna
Makar writes to Barbara after learning from Thedora that she is to marry Bwikov the next day and leave shortly after. He expresses his sorrow and resignation, assures her of his enduring happiness for her, and describes his visit to her empty room, where he found remnants of her work and a scrap of a letter. He asks to keep her book, 'The Stories of Bielkin,' for the long winter evenings and mentions his plan to move into her old quarters.
Chapter 56
September 30th: My Beloved Makar Alexievitch
Barbara writes a farewell letter to Makar, informing him that she is leaving with Monsieur Bwikov and that their time together has come to an end. She entrusts him with her book, embroidery frame, and an unfinished letter, and asks him to remember her. She expresses her deep love and gratitude, and her sorrow at their parting.
Chapter 57
Beloved Barbara—My Jewel, My Priceless One
Makar Alexievitch writes a desperate, heartbroken letter to Barbara upon learning of her impending departure with Monsieur Bwikov. He pleads with her to reconsider, expressing his profound love and fear of losing her, and paints a grim picture of the life awaiting her in the Steppes. He vows to follow her, to write endlessly, and cannot comprehend how she could leave him.
Chapter 58
Endnotes
This section contains endnotes providing brief explanations of terms referenced in the main text, such as a quarter of St. Petersburg, a secondary school, and a tea-urn.
