A Gentleman in Moscow

All poetry is a call to action.

Were one to ask Larousse to define the word cabinet, the acclaimed lexicographer might reply: A piece of furniture often adorned with decorative detail in which items may be stowed away from sight.

The commonest way of softening the hearts of those we have offended, when, vengeance in hand, they hold us at their mercy, is by submission to move them to commiseration and pity. However, audacity and steadfastness—entirely contrary means—have sometimes served to produce the same effect. . . .

imagining what might happen if one’s circumstances were different was the only sure route to madness.

“A king fortifies himself with a castle,” observed the Count, “a gentleman with a desk.”

“I see the blackberries have come in early this year!”

All poetry is a call to action

Why did you write the poem?

COUNT ALEXANDER ILYICH ROSTOV

All happy families are alike; each unhappy family is unhappy in its own way.