# September 23rd: My Beloved Barbara Alexievna explained — Poor Folk

> Chapter companion for Poor Folk by Fyodor Dostoevsky.

## What happens

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.

## Themes in this chapter

### Love and Sacrifice

Makar's selfless concern for Barbara's well-being, urging her to accept Bwikov's proposal despite his own feelings, exemplifies sacrificial love.

### Poverty and Deprivation

Makar's mention of Gorshkov's funeral and his own copying work highlights the pervasive poverty and precariousness of their lives.

## Character check-ins

### Makar Alexievitch Dievushkin

Writes a hurried, emotional reply to Barbara, expressing astonishment and resignation about Bwikov's proposal, while also showing concern for her health and their future correspondence.

### Barbara Alexievna Dobroselova

The recipient of Makar's letter; she has apparently accepted Bwikov's proposal, and Makar addresses her with endearments and concern.

### Monsieur Bykov

Makar mentions glimpsing Bwikov leaving Barbara's door, describes him as fine-looking, and discusses his proposal and business affairs.

### Gorshkov

Makar notes that poor Gorshkov was buried yesterday, adding a somber note to the chapter.

### Thedora

Makar references Thedora's opinion that Barbara will be happy, but dismisses her as a gossiping old woman.

## Key lines

> Yes, Bwikov has acted nobly, and you have no choice but to accept him.

Makar acknowledges that Bwikov's proposal is honorable and that Barbara must accept it.

_Shows Makar's resignation and his belief that Barbara's acceptance is inevitable._

> In the future shall we be able to write letters to one another?

Makar worries whether their correspondence can continue after Barbara's marriage.

_Highlights Makar's fear of losing his connection with Barbara._

> Rain is descending in pailfuls, and it is such a soaking kind of rain that—that you might catch cold from it, my darling, and the chill might go to your heart.

Makar warns Barbara not to go out in the heavy rain for fear she might fall ill.

_Illustrates Makar's protective and anxious nature._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poor_folk_se/chapters/september-23rd-my-beloved-barbara-alexievna
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poor_folk_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poor_folk_se/chapters