Poor Folk · Chapter
August 5th: My Darling Little Barbara explained
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.
What happens
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.
Themes in this chapter
Poverty and Deprivation
Makar's desperate need for money, his ragged clothing, and his inability to afford basic necessities like shoes and an overcoat highlight the crushing poverty he endures.
Human Dignity and Self-Worth
Makar's humiliation at Markov's refusal, his shame over his appearance, and his concern for how others perceive him underscore his struggle to maintain dignity in the face of degradation.
Isolation and Loneliness
Makar's solitary walk, his feeling of being judged by everyone, and his reliance on Barbara's letters for comfort reflect his profound isolation.
Characters to notice
- Makar Alexievitch Dievushkin
Narrates his failed attempt to borrow money from Markov, his physical and emotional suffering, and his concern for Barbara's opinion.
- Barbara Alexievna Dobroselova
Recipient of the letter; Makar reassures her and expresses his love and concern for her feelings.
- Markov
The moneylender Makar visits; he refuses to lend money without security, causing Makar further distress.
- Emelia Ivanovitch
Mentioned as the one who told Makar about Markov's readiness to lend money.
- Ermak
A writer in the office whom Makar meets on the street; he follows Makar with his eyes as if begging for vodka.
Key passages
“It is for other folk that one wears an overcoat and boots. In any case, therefore, I should have needed boots to maintain my name and reputation; to both of which my ragged footgear would otherwise have spelled ruin.”
Makar explains that he needs proper clothing not for his own comfort but to preserve his social standing and avoid the judgment of others.
This reveals Makar's deep concern with social appearance and the performative nature of respectability.
“What is it that will most surely break me? It is not the want of money, but the little worries of life—these whisperings and nods and jeers.”
Makar states that his greatest suffering comes not from poverty itself but from the constant social humiliations and petty cruelties he endures.
Highlights the psychological torment of social degradation, a key theme in the novel.