If in the first act you introduce a gun, by the third act you have to use it.

Ivanov: Once I worked hard and thought a lot but I never got tired; now I do nothing and think of nothing, but I'm tired in body and spirit. My conscience aches day and night, I feel deeply guilty but I don't understand where I am actually at fault. And add to that my wife's illness, my lack of money, the constant bickering, gossip, unnecessary conversations, that stupid Borkin... My home has become loathsome to me and I find living there worse than torture.

Dear, sweet, unforgettable childhood!

People who lead a lonely existence always have something on their minds that they are eager to talk about.

I swear fearfully at the conventions of the stage.

I expect I shall be a student to the end of my days.

In my head there is a whole army of people asking to be let out and waiting for the word of command.