Poor Folk · Chapter
September 28th: My Dearest Makar Alexievitch explained
Barbara writes to Makar, instructing him to cancel the order for pearl and emerald earrings from the jeweller, as Monsieur Bwikov has deemed them too expensive and complains of being robbed.
What happens
Barbara writes to Makar, instructing him to cancel the order for pearl and emerald earrings from the jeweller, as Monsieur Bwikov has deemed them too expensive and complains of being robbed. Bwikov has lost his temper, threatens to have only a plain wedding without festivities, and expresses regret about the marriage expenses. Barbara feels helpless and anxious about her future.
Themes in this chapter
Exploitation and Predation
Bwikov's domineering behavior and financial control over Barbara highlight the exploitative nature of their relationship.
Human Dignity and Self-Worth
Barbara's silent submission to Bwikov's anger and her fear of the future underscore her diminished sense of self-worth.
Characters to notice
- Barbara Alexievna Dobroselova
Writes to Makar in distress, conveying Bwikov's anger and her own helplessness.
- Monsieur Bykov
Angrily cancels expensive earrings, threatens a plain wedding, and expresses regret about marriage expenses.
Key passages
“For God’s sake go to the jeweller’s, and tell him that, after all, he need not make the pearl and emerald earrings.”
Barbara urgently asks Makar to cancel the order for the expensive earrings.
Shows Bwikov's financial control and Barbara's compliance.
“Monsieur Bwikov says that they will cost him too much, that they will burn a veritable hole in his pocket.”
Bwikov complains that the earrings are too costly and wasteful.
Highlights Bwikov's miserliness and irritation.
“Also, he says that, as things are, he intends only to have a plain wedding, and then to depart. 'You must not look for any dancing or festivity or entertainment of guests, for our gala times are still in the air.'”
Bwikov declares the wedding will be simple and without celebration, as he feels the expenses are already too high.
Reveals Bwikov's domineering nature and the bleakness of Barbara's future.