# XXVIII explained — Short Fiction

> Chapter companion for Short Fiction by Fyodor Sologub.

## What happens

Three women sit at luncheon, speaking cheerfully and frequently mentioning Borya, while below the terrace an old nurse crosses herself and prays for the repose of his soul. The women's forced gaiety and anxious glances toward the gate reveal their underlying dread.

## Themes in this chapter

### Death and Mortality

The nurse's prayer for Borya's soul and the women's fearful reaction underscore the presence of death.

### Illusion vs. Reality

The women's forced cheerfulness and chatter attempt to mask the grim reality of Borya's fate.

## Character check-ins

### Borya

Frequently mentioned by the women at the table; his absence is a source of anxiety.

### Fedosya

The old nurse who mumbles prayers for Borya's soul under the terrace.

## Key lines

> O Lord, rest the soul of thy servant, Boris.

The nurse prays for the dead Borya.

_This repeated prayer reveals that Borya is dead, contradicting the women's pretense that he might still come._

> They sit at luncheon long, but they talk more industriously than they eat. They glance nervously toward the gate.

The women prolong their meal with frantic conversation, avoiding silence and watching the gate anxiously.

_Their behavior shows they are trying to delay confronting the truth of Borya's absence._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/short_fiction_20_se/chapters/xxviii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/short_fiction_20_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/short_fiction_20_se/chapters