My Life (Chekhov)
Short summary
A provincial Russian town, late 19th century. Misail Poloznev, the son of the town architect, lost his ninth job after speaking disrespectfully to his superintendent. His father, who worshipped social position, was mortified by Misail's decision to become a manual laborer instead of pursuing a respectable career. Despite his father's objections and eventual physical abuse, Misail began working as a house painter under Radish, finding dignity in physical labor.
Misail lived in a shed in his father's yard and later moved to his old nurse's home. He participated in amateur theatricals where he met Dr. Blagovo and engineer Dolzhikov's daughter, Mariya Viktorovna. After working briefly at a telegraph office for Dolzhikov, Misail returned to painting. The townspeople mocked him for his choice, but he persisted, finding satisfaction in honest work despite hunger and hardship.
Misail's sister Kleopatra began visiting him secretly, influenced by Dr. Blagovo with whom she fell in love. Meanwhile, Mariya Viktorovna became interested in Misail's lifestyle. She invited him to her home, and they gradually developed feelings for each other. When her father returned to Petersburg, Mariya and Misail began seeing each other regularly. She dreamed of living a simple life at her father's estate, Dubetchnya, and working the land.
Misail and Mariya married and moved to Dubetchnya. They attempted to farm and build a school, but faced hostility from peasants and difficulties with the land. Mariya gradually became disillusioned with country life. Meanwhile, Kleopatra, pregnant with Dr. Blagovo's child, was disowned by their father and moved in with Misail. Mariya eventually left for Petersburg with her father and later wrote asking Misail to release her from their marriage as she was going to America.
If I wanted to order a ring for myself, the inscription I should choose would be: "Nothing passes away." I believe that nothing passes away without leaving a trace, and that every step we take, however small, has significance for our present and our future existence.
Years later, Misail continued working as a house painter, now respected as a skilled craftsman. His sister raised her daughter alone, while Dr. Blagovo moved to Petersburg. Anyuta Blagovo, who had secretly loved Misail, would occasionally meet him at his sister's grave. Despite the hardships and disappointments, Misail found meaning in his simple life of labor, accepting that his choices had shaped his existence.
Detailed summary by chapters
Chapter titles are editorial.
Chapter 1. Rebellion against authority and choosing manual labor
Misail Alexeyitch Poloznev was dismissed from his government position after responding sarcastically to his superintendent. This marked his ninth job loss, much to the mortification of his father, the town architect. When Misail returned home, his father lamented what he should do with his son, who at twenty-five had failed to secure a stable position in society.
Misail declared his intention to earn his living through manual labor, rejecting his father's expectations of intellectual work. His father, who worshipped himself and lacked imagination, was outraged by this decision. He slapped Misail and struck him with an umbrella when Misail suggested he would renounce his inheritance. Despite this abuse, Misail remained determined to pursue physical labor, believing it would free him from doubt and uncertainty.
What you call a position in society is the privilege of capital and education. Those who have neither wealth nor education earn their daily bread by manual labour, and I see no grounds for my being an exception.
Chapter 2. Social gatherings and a job offer at the railway
Misail participated in amateur theatrical performances at the Azhogins' house, where he worked behind the scenes painting scenery and creating special effects. During one rehearsal, his sister arrived with Anyuta Blagovo, who informed him that the engineer Dolzhikov had promised him a position on the railway line. Madame Azhogin, upon learning this, encouraged Misail to leave the rehearsal and pursue this opportunity.
The next day, Misail visited Dolzhikov's house, where he met the engineer's daughter, Mariya Viktorovna. When Dolzhikov arrived, he was dismissive of Misail, complaining about people seeking clerical positions when he needed mechanics and laborers for his railway construction. Nevertheless, he offered Misail a telegraph operator position at Dubetchnya, warning him not to get drunk or make requests.
Chapter 3. New life at Dubetchnya
Misail departed for Dubetchnya, feeling sad to leave the town yet critical of its inhabitants. He reflected on the town's sixty-five thousand residents, whose purpose remained a mystery to him. The wealthy lived in unhygienic conditions, the food was poor, and the drinking water unwholesome. Despite discussions about obtaining a Treasury loan for a water supply, the rich refused to fund it themselves.
I did not understand what these sixty thousand people lived for and by. I knew that Kimry lived by boots, that Tula made samovars and guns, that Odessa was a seaport, but what our town was, and what it did, I did not know.
At Dubetchnya, Misail found the station still under construction. He wandered aimlessly until discovering the telegraph office in an old manor house. There he met Ivan Tcheprakov, a former schoolfellow nicknamed "Better-than-nothing," who now operated the telegraph. Tcheprakov explained that his family had recently sold the estate to Dolzhikov, though his mother retained the right to live in one of the lodges for two years.
Misail took his meals with Tcheprakov's mother, a stout middle-aged lady with slanting Chinese eyes who spoke about her former status as a general's widow. The food was poor, and the atmosphere depressing. In his free time, Misail explored the neglected garden and visited the mill, which was operated by a taciturn leather-worker named Stepan.
Chapter 4. Visitors at the mill
One day, Misail's sister Kleopatra arrived at the mill with Anyuta Blagovo and her brother, Dr. Blagovo. They had come for a picnic. Misail noticed his sister appeared happy, unlike her usual self. Dr. Blagovo spoke enthusiastically about progress and civilization, while Kleopatra delighted in her newfound freedom from domestic concerns.
Chapter 5. Life as a house painter
After a period of unemployment, Misail began working as a house painter under Andrey Ivanitch Radish, a contractor known for his philosophical musings. Though Radish was a skilled workman who could earn good money, his desire to be called a contractor often left him financially strained. The work was physically demanding, especially painting roofs in the heat, but Misail adapted quickly.
Misail's new occupation made him a target of mockery in town. Shopkeepers and former laborers were particularly hostile, and his acquaintances became embarrassed when they encountered him. He moved to the suburb to live with his old nurse Karpovna, a gloomy, superstitious woman who constantly predicted doom for his "ruined" life.
Chapter 6. Intellectual discussions and family tensions
Kleopatra began visiting Misail regularly, though she came secretly, pretending to visit their nurse. She implored him to reform his ways for their father's sake, fearing he would not survive the shame of his son's occupation. Misail insisted he was following his conscience, but his sister believed there must be a way to live honestly without wounding others.
Dr. Blagovo also visited, engaging Misail in intellectual discussions about manual labor, science, and progress. The doctor respected Misail's principled stance but argued that intellectuals should not waste their talents on physical labor when they could contribute to scientific advancement. These conversations elevated Misail morally and intellectually, though he often disagreed with the doctor's views.
Chapter 7. Struggle with prejudice and manual labor
As autumn arrived, Misail found work papering rooms at the town club. While there, he encountered Mariya Viktorovna, who recognized him despite his workman's clothes. She expressed admiration for his choice to live simply and invited him to visit her, as her father was away in Petersburg. Misail was struck by her kindness and felt drawn to her despite his embarrassment about his appearance.
During this period, Misail received mysterious gifts of tea, lemons, and a scarf that smelled of lilies-of-the-valley, Anyuta Blagovo's favorite scent. He realized she was his secret benefactor. Meanwhile, winter approached, and work became more plentiful. Misail and Radish painted the iconostasis in a cemetery church, appreciating the quiet, contemplative atmosphere.
Dr. Blagovo returned from Petersburg, and they resumed their evening billiards games and philosophical discussions. The doctor arranged for Misail to visit Mariya Viktorovna, who welcomed him warmly. She spoke critically of wealth and luxury, claiming that comfort should be equal for all without privileges. The three spent a pleasant evening together, with Mariya singing beautifully and the doctor playing piano.
I did not know one honest man in the town. My father took bribes, and imagined that they were given him out of respect for his moral qualities... and the town doctor and the veterinary surgeon levied a regular tax on the butchers' shops.
Misail began visiting Mariya regularly. They debated social movements, with the doctor arguing that Russia lacked genuine intellectual development. Despite these disagreements, Misail found himself increasingly drawn to Mariya, though he was conscious of the class difference between them and felt uncomfortable in her luxurious home.
Chapter 8. Confrontation with the Governor
One evening, Misail returned home to find a police inspector waiting for him with a summons to appear before the Governor the next morning. Anxious and unable to sleep, Misail accompanied his nurse's adopted son Prokofy to the slaughterhouse before dawn. The bloody, chaotic atmosphere of the market where Prokofy sold meat only increased Misail's unease.
At the Governor's office, Misail was informed that his father had complained to the Marshal of Nobility about his son's behavior, which was deemed inconsistent with his noble rank. The Governor, speaking respectfully but firmly, advised Misail either to return to duties befitting his station or to move to another district where he was unknown. When Misail admitted he ate meat, contradicting the Governor's assumption that he was a vegetarian, the meeting ended awkwardly.
Chapter 9. Growing attraction to Mariya Viktorovna
After the meeting with the Governor, Misail visited Mariya Viktorovna, who laughed heartily upon hearing about the encounter. Their relationship deepened, and Misail found himself increasingly drawn to her. She visited the cemetery where he worked, touched by the simplicity of his life and the respect the other workers showed him. She confessed that her dream was to move to Dubetchnya in March to manage the estate her father had promised her.
As Lent began, Viktor Ivanitch Dolzhikov returned unexpectedly from Petersburg. He was cordial to Misail, approving of his choice to work rather than waste government paper. However, Misail felt constrained in the engineer's presence, conscious that Dolzhikov still looked down on him. The atmosphere in the house changed, and Mariya seemed less cheerful.
One evening, after not visiting for several days, Misail found Mariya alone and in tears. She begged him not to desert her, saying she was utterly alone with no one but him in the world. Overcome with emotion, Misail embraced and kissed her, marking the beginning of their romantic relationship.
Chapter 10. Crisis and reconciliation with Mariya
Misail stopped visiting Mariya for several days, troubled by his feelings and the social gulf between them. One night, in desperation, he stood outside her house in the rain, watching the lighted windows. He rang the bell but then ran away in panic. The next day, Mariya came to find him at his workplace, asking why he had abandoned her. She confessed she was completely alone and begged him not to desert her.
Misail was deeply moved by her vulnerability and sincerity. Despite his concerns about their different social positions and his own inadequacy, he recognized the depth of his feelings for her. Their reconciliation marked a turning point in their relationship, with both acknowledging their strong emotional connection despite the obstacles they faced.
Chapter 11. Brief domestic happiness
Misail and Mariya were married in the parish church at Kurilovka, two miles from Dubetchnya. Mariya wanted a quiet ceremony; their only guest from town was Kleopatra, who cried from joy and tenderness. After the wedding, Kleopatra embraced Mariya and praised Misail's goodness. She also mentioned that their father, though hurt by Misail's silence, was secretly pleased about the marriage, believing Mariya would help Misail take a more serious view of life.
Chapter 12. Return of the engineer
The newlyweds settled at Dubetchnya, where Misail prepared three small rooms in the big house. They lived simply but happily, with Misail working on the estate and Mariya planning their agricultural future. She had a collection of books on farming and dreamed of working the land herself once spring arrived. Their happiness, however, was marred by the return of the engineer.
Viktor Ivanitch arrived unexpectedly, sunburnt and covered in dust. He criticized their management of the estate and expressed regret at having bought Dubetchnya, which had become a financial loss. He treated their marriage as a caprice, mentioning that Mariya had done similar things before, once believing herself to be an opera singer. His presence cast a shadow over their happiness, with Mariya sleeping poorly and losing her cheerfulness.
I was faced with a monotonous life of toil in the midst of hunger, coarseness, and stench, continually preoccupied with earning my daily bread. And who knows? as I returned from my work along Great Dvoryansky Street...
Chapter 13. Difficulties with the local peasants
Life at Dubetchnya grew increasingly difficult due to problems with the local peasants. They grazed their cattle on the couple's land, stole building materials, and demanded payment for imaginary damages. Mariya became exasperated with their behavior, calling them "savages" and "Petchenyegs," while Misail gradually developed a more sympathetic understanding of the peasants' lives and struggles.
In the country newcomers are met ungraciously, almost with hostility, as they are at school. And we were received in this way. At first we were looked upon as stupid, silly people, who had bought an estate simply because we did not know what to do with our money.
Mariya spent time at the mill talking with Stepan, who shared her disdain for peasants. Misail noticed that despite her criticism of the peasants' dishonesty and drunkenness, she failed to recognize similar flaws in her own father. This disconnect troubled him, as did the growing strain in their relationship caused by their different perspectives on rural life.
Chapter 14. Philosophical discussions with Dr. Blagovo
Misail noticed his sister behaving secretively, often whispering with Mariya. One evening, he found Kleopatra walking alone in the garden, looking troubled. When he questioned her, she confessed to being in love with Dr. Blagovo. At that moment, the doctor appeared, and Kleopatra rushed to him emotionally. Misail was shocked to discover their relationship, especially since the doctor was married with children.
Chapter 15. The school dedication and disillusionment
Misail and Mariya attended the dedication of a school in Kurilovka that she had built. As they drove, Mariya reflected on their efforts at self-improvement, questioning whether they had truly benefited anyone. She suggested that their methods of helping were mistaken and that more direct action was needed to effect change. The autumn landscape reinforced her melancholy mood as she bid farewell to her agricultural dreams.
Chapter 16. Mariya prepares to leave
Mariya began making frequent trips to town, staying overnight. In her absence, Misail felt lost and unable to work effectively. When she returned from one such trip, she seemed displeased and complained about the window frames being installed for winter. That evening, while looking at fashion plates, Misail was overcome with emotion, realizing how insignificant his role in her life had become.
Their peaceful evening was interrupted by screams from the yard. Misail investigated and found Ivan Tcheprakov and Moisey, Madame Tcheprakov's lover, fighting. After separating them, he returned to find Mariya dressed and preparing to leave. She announced she was going to Petersburg for a short time and asked for his permission. At midnight, he accompanied her to the station, where they parted with a tender embrace.
Chapter 17. The sisters disgrace at the theater
Misail received a letter from Mariya revealing she was going to America with her father for an exhibition. She asked for her freedom, suggesting they correct their "mistake" of marriage. Devastated but resigned, Misail continued his life without her. Meanwhile, his sister had taken a part in a theatrical performance at the Azhogins', despite having no acting talent.
At the rehearsal, when Kleopatra's turn came to perform, she froze on stage and then collapsed in tears. Anyuta Blagovo angrily blamed Misail for not preventing his sister's participation. Madame Azhogin then revealed to Misail that his sister was pregnant, imploring him to take her away from the humiliating scene.
Chapter 18. Moving to Radishs and family reflection
Misail and Kleopatra moved to Radish's home that same day. As they walked through the streets, they discussed their lives and the cruelty of the town's respectable families. Kleopatra, relieved to be free from her father's house, began a new life with her brother. She was happy despite her circumstances, singing and talking constantly about Dr. Blagovo, praising his intelligence and kindness.
Prokofy, Karpovna's adopted son, expressed disapproval of their situation, saying that Kleopatra should find other lodgings due to her condition. Though Karpovna could not directly confront Misail, Prokofy made it clear they were no longer welcome in his mother's house.
Chapter 19. The sisters secret and Mariyas departure
A soldier delivered a letter from Mariya to Misail. She wrote from America, describing her new freedom and asking him to break the thread binding them together. She mentioned singing with success but insisted it was not an infatuation but rather her "haven" and "cell." She signed off with warm regards to both Misail and his sister.
One evening, Misail returned to his father's house, watching through the window as his father and sister moved about inside. Overcome with loneliness, he rang the bell. The cook Axinya welcomed him tearfully, urging him to reconcile with his father. When Misail entered his father's study, he found him drawing plans for a summer villa with Gothic windows.
Misail informed his father that Kleopatra was gravely ill, but his father responded with a lecture about reaping what one sows. This provoked Misail to criticize his father's generation for creating a dreary, barren life devoid of honesty or service to the country. He condemned the town as useless and unnecessary, filled with shopkeepers and hypocrites. His father, enraged, ordered him to leave and never return until he had mended his ways.
It's a town of shopkeepers, publicans, countinghouse clerks, canting hypocrites; it's a useless, unnecessary town, which not one soul would regret if it suddenly sank through the earth.
Afterward, Misail wandered the streets in a daze, bareheaded and staggering, while boys ran after him shouting "Better-than-nothing!" This final confrontation marked the complete rupture with his father and his former life.
Chapter 20. Reflection on the meaning of life
Years later, Misail reflected on how his life had changed. Now respected as a skilled workman and foreman, he was no longer mocked or mistreated. People addressed him politely and offered him tea in houses where he worked. He had grown older, more serious, and resembled Radish in his stern demeanor.
My great troubles, my patience, have touched people's hearts, and now they don't call me "Better-than-nothing," they don't laugh at me, and when I walk by the shops they don't throw water over me.
Mariya lived abroad, while her father constructed railways in the eastern provinces. Dr. Blagovo was also abroad. On holidays, Misail took his niece (Kleopatra's daughter) to the cemetery to visit her mother's grave. Sometimes they encountered Anyuta Blagovo there, and they would walk together silently, united in their grief and memories of the past.