Written in the late 19th century, this collection explores themes of love, loss, and the complexities of human relationships, portraying the lives of ordinary characters as they navigate personal dilemmas and societal expectations.
The story "The Darling" begins with Olenka, a kind and gentle woman who feels an emotional need to love those around her. Her early attachments to family members eventually lead to her romance with Kukin, the manager of a local theater. Kukin, struggling against public indifference to his artistic endeavors, deeply influences Olenka with his passion and struggles.
After their marriage, Olenka immerses herself in the theater world, adopting Kukin’s enthusiasm for the arts. However, tragedy strikes when Kukin dies suddenly, leaving Olenka in profound grief. The story illustrates her reliance on love and affection to give her life purpose, foreshadowing her need for new attachments as she faces life without her husband.
