# September 28th: My Beloved Barbara Alexievna explained — Poor Folk

> Chapter companion for Poor Folk by Fyodor Dostoevsky.

## What happens

Makar writes to Barbara, reporting that the matter with the jeweller is resolved. He also reveals that he has fallen ill with a chill and cannot rise from bed, just when many things need to be done. Additionally, he notes that his Excellency has become stricter and recently scolded Emelia Ivanovitch severely. Makar expresses his fear of obtruding upon Barbara's notice but shares his news nonetheless.

## Themes in this chapter

### Bureaucracy and Dehumanization

His Excellency's strictness and scolding of Emelia Ivanovitch illustrates the dehumanizing power dynamics within the bureaucratic system.

### Isolation and Loneliness

Makar's illness and his fear of obtruding upon Barbara highlight his physical and emotional isolation.

## Character check-ins

### Makar Alexievitch Dievushkin

Narrates the letter, reports his own illness and the jeweller matter, and describes his fear of bothering Barbara.

### Barbara Alexievna Dobroselova

The recipient of the letter, addressed with affection as 'My beloved Barbara Alexievna'.

### Emelia Ivanovitch

Scolded harshly by his Excellency, leaving him quite put about.

## Key lines

> All is well as regards the jeweller.

The situation with the jeweller has been resolved satisfactorily.

_Makar reassures Barbara that the jeweller matter is settled._

> Unfortunately, I have also to say that I myself have fallen ill, and cannot rise from bed.

Sadly, I must also inform you that I am sick and bedridden.

_Makar reports his own illness, compounding his difficulties._

> Today he railed at and scolded Emelia Ivanovitch until the poor fellow was quite put about.

Today he harshly berated Emelia Ivanovitch, leaving the poor man very distressed.

_Describes the superior's harsh treatment of a colleague._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poor_folk_se/chapters/september-28th-my-beloved-barbara-alexievna
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poor_folk_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poor_folk_se/chapters