Poor Folk · Chapter
September 27th: My Beloved Barbara Alexievna explained
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.
What happens
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.
Themes in this chapter
Poverty and Deprivation
Makar's exhaustion and inability to attend work highlight the physical and financial toll of his impoverished circumstances.
Love and Sacrifice
Makar's willingness to visit every shop in St. Petersburg and his careful fulfillment of Barbara's commissions demonstrate his selfless devotion.
Characters to notice
- Makar Alexievitch Dievushkin
Writes to Barbara, having completed her commissions; feels exhausted and skipped work; expresses hope and longing to see her.
- Barbara Alexievna Dobroselova
The recipient of Makar's letter; she is urged not to despair and is expecting a visit from Madame Chiffon.
- Madame Chiffon
Makar visited her to fulfill Barbara's commissions; she is described as a tiresome old woman and will visit Barbara at seven o'clock.
- Monsieur Bykov
Mentioned as a man of choleric temper, causing Makar to be cautious about approaching Barbara's home.
Key passages
“I have carefully fulfilled your commissions. Madame Chiffon informs me that she herself had thought of using tambour work as being more suitable (though I did not quite take in all she said).”
Makar reports that he has completed Barbara's errands, noting that Madame Chiffon suggested tambour work, though he found her explanations confusing.
Highlights Makar's diligence and his struggle to understand Madame Chiffon's detailed instructions.
“Do not despair about the future, dearest. To save you trouble I would visit every shop in St. Petersburg.”
Makar comforts Barbara, expressing his willingness to go to any lengths to spare her hardship.
Emphasizes Makar's deep care and sacrificial love for Barbara.
“Twice already today I have passed the gates of your abode. Unfortunately, this Bwikov is a man of such choler that—Well, things are as they are.”
Makar confesses he has walked past Barbara's home twice but is wary of Bwikov's irritable temper.
Reveals Makar's longing to see Barbara and his fear of Bwikov's anger.