Poor Folk · Chapter
August 5th: Dearest Makar Alexievitch explained
Barbara writes to Makar, urging him not to despair and sending him thirty kopecks.
What happens
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.
Themes in this chapter
Poverty and Deprivation
Barbara sends thirty kopecks, her last money, highlighting the extreme poverty both characters face.
Love and Sacrifice
Barbara notes that Makar lives only for her joys and sorrows, sacrificing his own well-being for her sake.
Characters to notice
- Barbara Alexievna Dobroselova
Writes to Makar, sending money and urging him not to despair; expresses concern for his health and advises him to think of himself.
- Makar Alexievitch Dievushkin
Subject of Barbara's letter; she notes his pale and desperate appearance and his tendency to neglect his own needs for her sake.
- Thedora
Barbara mentions Thedora's opinion that staying in the tenement might be prudent to avoid suspicion.
Key passages
“I am sending you thirty kopecks in silver, and regret that I cannot send you more. Buy yourself what you most need until tomorrow.”
Barbara sends Makar a small sum of money, the last she has, and tells him to use it for his immediate necessities.
Demonstrates Barbara's sacrificial generosity despite her own destitution.
“You take things so much to heart that you never know what it is to be happy.”
Barbara observes that Makar's tendency to dwell on troubles prevents him from experiencing joy.
Highlights Makar's emotional vulnerability and Barbara's concern for his mental state.