Poor Folk · Chapter
August 14th: What Is the Matter with You, Makar Alexievitch? explained
Barbara writes a desperate letter to Makar, pleading with him to stop his self-destructive behavior and excessive concern for reputation.
What happens
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.
Themes in this chapter
Poverty and Deprivation
Barbara's desperation and her offer to become a cook or laundress underscore the crushing poverty that forces her to consider such work.
Human Dignity and Self-Worth
Barbara urges Makar to remember that 'poverty is no crime' and to maintain his self-respect despite their misfortunes.
Characters to notice
- Barbara Alexievna Dobroselova
Writes a heartfelt and desperate letter to Makar, expressing her anguish over his behavior and her fear for their future.
- Makar Alexievitch Dievushkin
The subject of Barbara's letter; she scolds him for his drunkenness, shame, and neglect of her pleas.
- Thedora
Mentioned as having informed Barbara that she can no longer help Makar, and as a source of stories about her pilgrimages.
Key passages
“You are not only driving me to distraction but also ruining yourself with this eternal solicitude for your reputation.”
Your constant worry about what others think is destroying both of us.
Barbara criticizes Makar's obsessive concern for his public image.
“Poverty is no crime; always remember that.”
Being poor is not a sin.
Barbara tries to console Makar by reminding him that poverty does not diminish his worth.
“I live for you alone; it is for your sake alone that I am still here.”
You are the only reason I continue to endure this life.
Barbara expresses her deep emotional dependence on Makar.