Nothing But Reading Challenges discussion
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A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles (Anything Goes BOM); Starts May 12, 2017****REVISIT informal buddy reads starts August 3, 2018
I was amused by the passages of bread. In the household I live in it was almost become a curse word because of the carbs:)Bread and Salt was also referred to in Game of Thrones as a symbol of peace under ones roof. Never mind its in the wiki article. lol
May 17 1950/Adagio.. - Achilles Agonoistes 321 - 394Discussion Questions
28: Sofia is now seventeen on the edge of adulthood, did you find the Counts reaction when he found Sofia alone with Victor Stepanovich an older man unexpected or natural?
Very natural. It was the first time for him to see his daughter in the light of possibly being taken advantage by an older man. I am not sure how fornication is looked upon in Russia in these days.
29: Over the years the Count and Richard Vanderwhile develop a friendship do you agree with the narrator of the book that people of similar social standing and upbringing will gravitate towards each other?
Most definitely. We as a people gravitate towards people that are like us. I think it is difficult for people to break this bond that is we have the problems that we have today from ignorance in other backgrounds. That is why I like to read cultural books.
30: The Count became very upset when he discovered Sofia And Anna had become acquainted without his knowledge. Why do you think he wished to keep his relationship with Anna and his life as Sofia's father separate?
It could be he was embarrassed about it. Or more likely people get upset when truth comes out from loved ones that one does not want to hear.
31: Were you surprised when Richard asked the Count to spy? Do you think this request and the Count turning him down will effect their friendship?
No I was not surprised by this. He was in position to be an asset to someone in the state department. I was surprised it didn't happen sooner. I was proud of the count for refusing to provide the information the friend mentioned as gossip (which the count wouldn't tolerate) but at the end of the day it would lead to spying and once you go down the path...
32: What did you make of Mishka's Manuscript on bread? Do you think bread holds a special place in the Russian consciousness after reading the quotes Mishka used?
I was amused by it. Since it started when he was asked to remove a sentence about it from his work which led him being sent to Siberia for a time and with the passages that follow especially about after ones joy is taken away how he couldn't enjoy bread anymore. I think bread holds a special place in many cultures heart. From the biblical times to today in most cultures around the world.
33: As we come to the final part of book what do you imagine will become of the Count, Sofia and Anna?
The best Russian novels end in tragedy so I am concerned. My hopes are that Sofia is able to escape to Paris but I can see how the count may kill himself by leaving the hotel and being shot. He will most certainly publish Miska work under his name and create problems for himself. Anna death and his daughter escape may lead him down the path where suicide might be a statement of defiance instead of depression.
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May 17 1950/Adagio.. - Achilles Agonoistes 321 - 394Discussion Questions
28: Sofia is now seventeen on the edge of adulthood, did you find the Counts reaction when he found Sofia alone with Victor Stepanovich an older man unexpected or natural?
As a mother, I totally saw where he was coming from, lol. I can say all day that he shouldn't have jumped to conclusions and he should have approached it with a calmer head, but, honestly, I probably would have done the same thing. Although, at seventeen, she is pretty much at the age where she can make her own decisions about with whom she spends her time.
29: Over the years the Count and Richard Vanderwhile develop a friendship do you agree with the narrator of the book that people of similar social standing and upbringing will gravitate towards each other?
I agree in the sense that they'll probably have more things in common and, therefore (at least initially), more things with which to strike up a conversation and possibly develop a friendship. I don't think similar social standing (alliteration!) will necessary make people like each other or even gravitate towards each other, though.
30: The Count became very upset when he discovered Sofia and Anna had become acquainted without his knowledge. Why do you think he wished to keep his relationship with Anna and his life as Sofia's father separate?
I get the basis of his trepidation, but I don't really understand why he reacted so negatively when he first discovered they had become acquainted. When I was a single parent, I waited months before introducing any significant others to my daughter. I wanted to make sure the relationship (and the person) was stable before bringing my kid into the mix. That being said, Alexander may not have wanted his barely-there lover to get involved in Sofia's life, for Sofia to become attached, and then for Anna to disappear. Still, I thought he completely overreacted!
31: Were you surprised when Richard asked the Count to spy? Do you think this request and the Count turning him down will effect their friendship?
I was surprised! It just seemed so... underhanded and beneath Richard to do something like that. I think the fact that Richard backed off as soon as the Count said no will help maintain their friendship, but I'm not sure if Alexander will be at ease with him as much anymore. Having asked and been rejected, Richard might even avoid the Count. I hope not, though.
32: What did you make of Mishka's Manuscript on bread? Do you think bread holds a special place in the Russian consciousness after reading the quotes Mishka used?
I thought it was hilarious and just like Mishka. I really want to shove that book in that editor's face. Making him cut out a passage about bread... ugh... Anyways, I believe someone (the narrator or the Count) mentioned that it was traditional to serve bread and salt when welcoming someone to your home. Other than that, I'm not sure of the total significance of bread in Russian culture.
33: As we come to the final part of book what do you imagine will become of the Count, Sofia and Anna?
The Count is plotting something, that much is clear. Part of me is hoping he's plotting an escape so that he can travel with Sofia! As for Sofia, I think she'll enjoy her travels and, hopefully, she continues in her pursuit of a musical career. And Anna will continue being the adaptable chameleon that she has proven herself to be. Mayhaps, if the Count does run off to Paris, she will join him.
MAY 18: Question set 6Arrivedreci - And Anon, p. 395 - 462
Edit: ok, now that I've posted the DQs to the site, some of these questions look long. Please excuse the length - I really loved the writing in this book, so most of the questions quote a few bits from the book, here and there :)
34. Time is a prevalent theme in A Gentleman in Moscow, the writing skillfully depicting the passage of years in the life of a man, as well as a country. How that time is experienced, be it through watching the stars travel across the sky, marking the day with the twice-tolling clock, anxiously watching the second hand of a watch - how time is experienced seems to vary greatly depending on what you are doing with your life and how you are spending your time. Do you agree with the quote "...life does not proceed by leaps and bounds. It unfolds."? Have you experienced time passing differently at different stages of your life?
35. One thing I didn't expect from this book was the wry humor, especially from the narrator. Little lines like: "The Swiss diplomat, who spoke both Russian and Italian perfectly, exemplified his nation's reputation for neutrality by listening to both men with his mouth shut," reminded me, in tone, of the quiet smiles that underlie Jane Austen's social commentary. What aspects of the book surprised you as you read? What aspects will you take away with you most strongly?
36. Alexander is always analyzing chains of events, and how one decision or action led to another, then to another, i.e. what events led to him not being there for Helena's death, what events led to him meeting Nina, etc. What do you think Alexander was referring to when he said: "...in the end, it has been the inconveniences that have mattered to me the most." Do you think, throughout his life, he trusted to Fate more often, or grabbed his own destiny in his hands? Or is there one era of his life where he was more one way, and then changed?
37. There were gifts of significance throughout the novel: the Count giving Nina the opera glasses to observe the world from afar, Nina giving the Count the skeleton key to the hotel, wrapped in a Matryoshka package. What were some other gifts that stood out to you as you finished the book, material or spiritual?
38. He may have had his mustaches snipped, but it seems to me that Alexander remained a Gentleman throughout the story. I loved that he used a dueling pistol to waylay his nemesis, the Bishop, (does that make Alexander the Knight? Or perhaps the Castle?) but wouldn't shoot him because the Bishop wasn't an aristocrat (or, perhaps more importantly to the Count, a gentleman of honor.) What do you see as some of the biggest changes between the Old World Order society (Tsars, noble class, etc.) and New World Order society (apparatchiks, uniformity, etc.) as reflected in the book? What stays the same?
39. The change to the country of Russia during the twentieth century: two World Wars, the shift to communism, etc. the idea that one person can have any effect on these epic events seems laughable. Yet, the novel ends with a striking moment of illumination: "But is setting upright the cocktail glass in the aftermath of the commotion, didn't he also exhibit an essential faith that by the smallest of one's actions one can restore some sense of order to the world?" And to bring another cooking metaphor into this, "...the events of an average day are as likely to transform who we are as a pinch of pepper is to transform a stew." What is your take on how single people or seemingly small events caused a chain reaction (there it is again) in the lives of other characters in the book? Do you think any of Alexander's choices were surprising, or were they completely consistent with his definition of a Gentleman?
40. What do you think caused Alexander to plan Sofia's escape? Knowing that he may never see Sofia again, why do you think he stayed in Russia with Anna - is he just a bee who has found his honey? And finally, do you agree with the statement: "One can revisit the past quite pleasantly, as long as one does so expecting nearly every aspect of it to be changed."
Just as I feared, after the break day I had such a hard time getting back into the book. I struggled through the last part, but now I'm done! Love the ending. I gave the book 3 stars. Now I'm going to answer the daily questions.
May 17 1950/Adagio.. - Achilles Agonoistes 321 - 394Discussion Questions
28: Sofia is now seventeen on the edge of adulthood, did you find the Counts reaction when he found Sofia alone with Victor Stepanovich an older man unexpected or natural?
Of course he fears Victor is trying to seduce Sofia. The count is very protective of her. I see it as a natural reaction.
29: Over the years the Count and Richard Vanderwhile develop a friendship do you agree with the narrator of the book that people of similar social standing and upbringing will gravitate towards each other?
Often yes, because they have a lot in common.
30: The Count became very upset when he discovered Sofia And Anna had become acquainted without his knowledge. Why do you think he wished to keep his relationship with Anna and his life as Sofia's father separate?
The count wants everything proper and wants to keep thing separate. That Anna knows Sofia mixes up things.
31: Were you surprised when Richard asked the Count to spy? Do you think this request and the Count turning him down will effect their friendship?
Yes, I didn't see that coming. No I don't think this will influence the relationship.
32: What did you make of Mishka's Manuscript on bread? Do you think bread holds a special place in the Russian consciousness after reading the quotes Mishka used?
I thought it was a bit strange, but it is original to write that way. It does seem that bread holds a special place.
33: As we come to the final part of book what do you imagine will become of the Count, Sofia and Anna?
I expected things to stay the same.
MAY 18: Question set 6Arrivedreci - And Anon, p. 395 - 462
34. Time is a prevalent theme in A Gentleman in Moscow, the writing skillfully depicting the passage of years in the life of a man, as well as a country. How that time is experienced, be it through watching the stars travel across the sky, marking the day with the twice-tolling clock, anxiously watching the second hand of a watch - how time is experienced seems to vary greatly depending on what you are doing with your life and how you are spending your time. Do you agree with the quote "...life does not proceed by leaps and bounds. It unfolds."? Have you experienced time passing differently at different stages of your life?
I do agree with the quote.
When you are enjoying yourself time goes faster than when you are watching the seconds go by because you are waiting for a certain time.
35. One thing I didn't expect from this book was the wry humor, especially from the narrator. Little lines like: "The Swiss diplomat, who spoke both Russian and Italian perfectly, exemplified his nation's reputation for neutrality by listening to both men with his mouth shut," reminded me, in tone, of the quiet smiles that underlie Jane Austen's social commentary. What aspects of the book surprised you as you read? What aspects will you take away with you most strongly?
What surprised me is the importance of food. When I started this book I hadn't thought it would be so much about it.
I'm not sure if there is anything I'll take with me from this book. There is nothing that comes to mind.
36. Alexander is always analyzing chains of events, and how one decision or action led to another, then to another, i.e. what events led to him not being there for Helena's death, what events led to him meeting Nina, etc. What do you think Alexander was referring to when he said: "...in the end, it has been the inconveniences that have mattered to me the most." Do you think, throughout his life, he trusted to Fate more often, or grabbed his own destiny in his hands? Or is there one era of his life where he was more one way, and then changed?
I think he means that his house arrest at the hotel brought him the happies days of his life. He trusted fate and went with the flow.
37. There were gifts of significance throughout the novel: the Count giving Nina the opera glasses to observe the world from afar, Nina giving the Count the skeleton key to the hotel, wrapped in a Matryoshka package. What were some other gifts that stood out to you as you finished the book, material or spiritual?
I enjoyed the gift of the skeleton key the most. I also liked how the count gave the cheff saffron to make the special dish.
38. He may have had his mustaches snipped, but it seems to me that Alexander remained a Gentleman throughout the story. I loved that he used a dueling pistol to waylay his nemesis, the Bishop, (does that make Alexander the Knight? Or perhaps the Castle?) but wouldn't shoot him because the Bishop wasn't an aristocrat (or, perhaps more importantly to the Count, a gentleman of honor.) What do you see as some of the biggest changes between the Old World Order society (Tsars, noble class, etc.) and New World Order society (apparatchiks, uniformity, etc.) as reflected in the book? What stays the same?
The biggest change is that everyone is supposed to be equal, but it actually isn't in reality. Some people are still treated in a different way. Things, like dresses etc., are now available to all.
39. The change to the country of Russia during the twentieth century: two World Wars, the shift to communism, etc. the idea that one person can have any effect on these epic events seems laughable. Yet, the novel ends with a striking moment of illumination: "But is setting upright the cocktail glass in the aftermath of the commotion, didn't he also exhibit an essential faith that by the smallest of one's actions one can restore some sense of order to the world?" And to bring another cooking metaphor into this, "...the events of an average day are as likely to transform who we are as a pinch of pepper is to transform a stew." What is your take on how single people or seemingly small events caused a chain reaction (there it is again) in the lives of other characters in the book? Do you think any of Alexander's choices were surprising, or were they completely consistent with his definition of a Gentleman?
The details you quoted didn't mean much to me, but I agree that small things can have a bit impact. I think his actions were consistent with his definition of a gentleman.
40. What do you think caused Alexander to plan Sofia's escape? Knowing that he may never see Sofia again, why do you think he stayed in Russia with Nina - is he just a bee who has found his honey? And finally, do you agree with the statement: "One can revisit the past quite pleasantly, as long as one does so expecting nearly every aspect of it to be changed."
I think the idea of having Sofia stuck with him in the hotel for the rest of his life made him decide to help her escape. It was the moment when she refused to go to Paris with the orchestra that opened his eyes. You say he stayed there with Nina, but I'm pretty sure the willowy lady he met was Anna. Anna was often described as willowy. He stayed in Russia, because he loves Russia it is his home. He can't see himself outside Russia anymore. Yes I agree with that quote. When you go back a second time things are often changed.
Lusie wrote: " You say he stayed there with Nina, but I'm pretty sure the willowy lady he met was Anna." oops, yes - I'll edit that. Thanks!
28: Sofia is now seventeen on the edge of adulthood, did you find the Counts reaction when he found Sofia alone with Victor Stepanovich an older man unexpected or natural?Having been raised by a single father, I can say this is pretty well a natural response. I think it was actually really wonderful (and funny) in terms of character development to see the Count lose his cool (which is so often his most defining characteristic) in defence of his daughter. It shows that, despite being stuck under house arrest, he's still growing and learning from this experience of raising a child.
29: Over the years the Count and Richard Vanderwhile develop a friendship; do you agree with the narrator of the book that people of similar social standing and upbringing will gravitate towards each other?
Definitely. We're drawn to people that we can relate to, who will understand our life experiences and sympathize with us. Richard and the Count may be from different cultures, but because they had similar upbringings, they're preoccupied with a lot of the same things. It gives them something in common.
30: The Count became very upset when he discovered Sofia and Anna had become acquainted without his knowledge. Why do you think he wished to keep his relationship with Anna and his life as Sofia's father separate?
I think that there's a certain amount of control that the Count hopes to have when it comes to Sofia, as a parent. To have Sofia be acquainted with Anna might present to his daughter an image of himself that is less than gentlemanly, and because he wasn't aware of the friendship, he isn't able to mediate this perception of himself, if that makes any sense.
31: Were you surprised when Richard asked the Count to spy? Do you think this request and the Count turning him down will affect their friendship?
There is a passage a little later in the book that describes how Alexander is able to overhear every word while serving a dinner, including gossip and gripes and the like, so that as a server, he can anticipate any needs of the guests. So realistically, he's already in a perfect position to gather intel, and I'm not surprised that Richard intuited that. The conversation ended amicably enough, and Richard didn't push his friend, so it doesn't seem like it will affect their relationship too much.
32: What did you make of Mishka's manuscript on bread? Do you think bread holds a special place in the Russian consciousness after reading the quotes Mishka used?
So there is, obviously, a religious aspect to this; the manuscript moves from a religious viewpoint on bread (which, to my understanding, was a very strong influence in Russia before the revolution?) to a much more everyday understanding from the travel journal. I think it's also an interesting contrast to all of the rich and luscious food and wine described from Rostov's own experiences at the hotel, keeping with the theme of Alexander's aristocratic mindset being in many ways more indulgent than the Russian people at the time.
Day 3 Discussion QuestionsMay 14 1926/Adieu - Addendum
14. The Count meets an Englishman in the bar and tells him what happened to his sister. What did you think of the story and were you surprised he told it to a stranger in a bar? Do you think he's right to feel responsible and do you think it is influencing his actions and behaviour?
I don't think he should blame himself. That rarely stops grieving people though. Everyone has to work through things in their own way, and I think by giving himself up to the communists, he was punishing himself for not being there. I think we are seeing him grow and hopefully heal, though, no matter what the reasons that got him there.
15. On the night he decides to end things he involves himself in the discussion in the bar then hesitates at the edge of the roof. Do you think he would really have stepped off if he hadn't been interrupted? Why do you think he changed his mind after tasting the honey?
I'd like to think that he wouldn't have truly stepped off, but I think that if he hadn't been interrupted so many times that he might've. I don't think it was just the honey, I think he was already thinking about his sister after the conversation with the English man and maybe the honey (with all it's reminders of home and family) just helped him over the final hump to reconsider.
16. "when you exile a man into his own country, there is no beginning anew" Do you agree that for a man like the Count his confinement to the hotel is a greater punishment than if he'd been exiled to another country? Would this be the case for everyone as the book suggests? It seemed like the Prince didn't suffer so much being subject to the Minus Six.
I think it's true. If you can change your surroundings and begin anew, then healing van happen. If you can never get that fresh start to a new life, then you never get to heal.
17. I really like Nina as a character and loved the relationship between her and the Count so was surprised when she met him as an adult and was so cold towards him. Why do you think this was? Do you think they'll be reunited and become close again or are they heading in different directions?
I think she acted as an adult in a more exaggerated way of how she was as a child. She was always very serious, and the Count caught her at a time when she thoughts were on a new project which kept her from focusing on anything/anyone else. I'm disappointed, but it did seem in character.
18. Anna's fortunes changed dramatically. What did you think about how she dealt with it? Do you believe she has changed? What about her relationship with the Count? Were you surprised? Do you think it is serious and will last or are they just using each other?
I'm very pleased with her growth. I think it will last and that she and the count will continue to have a relationship of some sort (though it may just end up as friends) throughout their lives. I see this entire book as showing the way the count affects and influences the things around him even while stuck in one place. He is the lynch pin for all the different characters who float through.
19. The Count is working as head waiter in the restaurant and seems to have formed a real friendship with Andrey and Emile. What are your thoughts on Andrey and Emile and why do you think they get on so well? I absolutely loved the scene with Triumvirate and the bouillabaisse but was a bit confused as to why it was such a secret. Why was it so important to them and why did it cause such a strong emotional reaction?
I think most of the ingredients were still hard to get if not illegal due to the government restrictions at the time. If they had told, they would've had to share ;), as well as possibly have gotten into trouble. It's like the wine bottles, since one person couldn't understand the important of the different vintages, all labels were removed. In the same way, I don't think many would understand the intricacies of the bouillabaisse and by trying to make enough for all, they would've watered it down and ruined it.
20. What were your feelings on the meeting between the Count and Osip Ivanovich Glebnikov? He wants the Count to meet with him regularly to help him learn about the English and the French languages and cultures. Why do you think this is and why the Count? Do you think the Count will gain anything from this or is he heading for trouble?
I don't think he is headed for trouble, though I am a bit confused about why Osip sought out the Count. I'm definitely interested to see where this new relationship goes.
May 17 1950/Adagio.. - Achilles Agonoistes 321 - 394Discussion Questions
28: Sofia is now seventeen on the edge of adulthood, did you find the Counts reaction when he found Sofia alone with Victor Stepanovich an older man unexpected or natural?
He's more or less her father so it wasn't too unexpected a reaction. It does seem a little hypocritical as I get the feeling he was a bit of a player in his younger years. Although maybe that's why his reaction is a little over the top.
29: Over the years the Count and Richard Vanderwhile develop a friendship do you agree with the narrator of the book that people of similar social standing and upbringing will gravitate towards each other?
I think that's probably true. They have similar experiences and tastes so will have a lot in common despite coming from different countries and not knowing each other long. It's probably more difficult for people with different social standing and upbringing to become friends as they will have little in common.
30: The Count became very upset when he discovered Sofia And Anna had become acquainted without his knowledge. Why do you think he wished to keep his relationship with Anna and his life as Sofia's father separate?
He likes his buttons in their boxes :) I think it's just that he likes to keep his different roles separate. With Sofia he's the sensible parent trying to set a good example whereas with Anna he's kind of reliving his youth in a way, having an affair with a famous actress. I keep wanting to say he's ashamed of his affair but I don't think ashamed is the right word. I think with Anna he wants to feel like a young man without responsibility and he doesn't want Sofia to see that.
31: Were you surprised when Richard asked the Count to spy? Do you think this request and the Count turning him down will effect their friendship?
I'm not surprised someone asked him to spy. He's in the perfect position to see who's meeting who and overhear conversations between important people. Anyone who meets him would also know how observant and well informed he is. I was a little surprised it was Richard but I don't think it'll affect their friendship. I got the impression Richard kind of expected a no as he accepted it very easily.
32: What did you make of Mishka's Manuscript on bread? Do you think bread holds a special place in the Russian consciousness after reading the quotes Mishka used?
I thought it was a bit bizarre to be honest and was more evidence that he was maybe a little bit nuts. He seemed to be fixated on those sentences he'd been asked to cut from the letter. I think you'd probably find references to bread in lots of books (not just Russian ones)
33: As we come to the final part of book what do you imagine will become of the Count, Sofia and Anna?
I''m kind of worried that the Count will never get out of the hotel and may die there as he's starting to get older and slowing down. I'm hoping it won't happen though as it'll really upset me. I've gotten very attached to the Count
MAY 18: Question set 6Arrivedreci - And Anon, p. 395 - 462
34. Time is a prevalent theme in A Gentleman in Moscow, the writing skillfully depicting the passage of years in the life of a man, as well as a country. How that time is experienced, be it through watching the stars travel across the sky, marking the day with the twice-tolling clock, anxiously watching the second hand of a watch - how time is experienced seems to vary greatly depending on what you are doing with your life and how you are spending your time. Do you agree with the quote "...life does not proceed by leaps and bounds. It unfolds."? Have you experienced time passing differently at different stages of your life?
I like to think I'm not that old (yet) but I think time does definitely move faster the older you get. I can remember as a child how the 6 week summer holiday seemed to last forever and now time seems to fly by. I definitely think it depends what you're doing too, if you're waiting for something time seems to slow and if you're dreading something it speeds up.
I do agree with that quote that change generally happens so slowly you don't notice it but it does occasionally hit you in an instant.
35. One thing I didn't expect from this book was the wry humor, especially from the narrator. Little lines like: "The Swiss diplomat, who spoke both Russian and Italian perfectly, exemplified his nation's reputation for neutrality by listening to both men with his mouth shut," reminded me, in tone, of the quiet smiles that underlie Jane Austen's social commentary. What aspects of the book surprised you as you read? What aspects will you take away with you most strongly?
I absolutely loved the wry humour. All of those little asides really made me smile. What really got me though was the idea that someone could spend that length of time confined to a hotel without going mad and actually found a purpose and happiness (towards the end he says he's the luckiest man in Russia). There's another quote somewhere about how humans can adapt to any environment that I'll probably take away with me. Even though he did seem happy towards the end it still felt like such a sad story and I couldn't help wonder how much was him settling and how much he was missing out on.
36. Alexander is always analyzing chains of events, and how one decision or action led to another, then to another, i.e. what events led to him not being there for Helena's death, what events led to him meeting Nina, etc. What do you think Alexander was referring to when he said: "...in the end, it has been the inconveniences that have mattered to me the most." Do you think, throughout his life, he trusted to Fate more often, or grabbed his own destiny in his hands? Or is there one era of his life where he was more one way, and then changed?
I think he was saying it's the things he wouldn't have chosen for himself that ended up being the most important things in his life. Given his choice he wouldn't have had a child, he would have lived a life of leisure rather than worked but because of the way things worked out he ended up with Sofia, a job and the best friends he could have wished for and they ended up being what he most valued in life. He isn't really someone who takes action, he does seem a bit more reactive than proactive. He accepts his sentence, he stays put for 30+ years, he takes on Sofia, he puts up with the Bishop. With the exception of him asking for a job in the restaurant, it seems like it's only towards the end that he starts taking action. It does seem that possibly before his sister died he went after what he wanted but I think that changed him.
37. There were gifts of significance throughout the novel: the Count giving Nina the opera glasses to observe the world from afar, Nina giving the Count the skeleton key to the hotel, wrapped in a Matryoshka package. What were some other gifts that stood out to you as you finished the book, material or spiritual?
There were a lot of little thoughtful gifts throughout. The gramophone stood out as it was a way for the Count to experience something he loved and remember his past. I also loved all of the gifts the Count gave Sofia. He would literally do anything or give anything to her. When she first played the piano for him, it was so touching.
38. He may have had his mustaches snipped, but it seems to me that Alexander remained a Gentleman throughout the story. I loved that he used a dueling pistol to waylay his nemesis, the Bishop, (does that make Alexander the Knight? Or perhaps the Castle?) but wouldn't shoot him because the Bishop wasn't an aristocrat (or, perhaps more importantly to the Count, a gentleman of honor.) What do you see as some of the biggest changes between the Old World Order society (Tsars, noble class, etc.) and New World Order society (apparatchiks, uniformity, etc.) as reflected in the book? What stays the same?
I think Alexander stays very much the same throughout. He does get a job, learn to sew and become true friends with those he probably would have considered the lower classes but at his core he stays very much the same. There are a lot of changes within the hotel (bits of paper floating back and forward around the restaurant, checklists, inventories and generally a lot of admin) but the people seem to stay very much the same.
39. The change to the country of Russia during the twentieth century: two World Wars, the shift to communism, etc. the idea that one person can have any effect on these epic events seems laughable. Yet, the novel ends with a striking moment of illumination: "But is setting upright the cocktail glass in the aftermath of the commotion, didn't he also exhibit an essential faith that by the smallest of one's actions one can restore some sense of order to the world?" And to bring another cooking metaphor into this, "...the events of an average day are as likely to transform who we are as a pinch of pepper is to transform a stew." What is your take on how single people or seemingly small events caused a chain reaction (there it is again) in the lives of other characters in the book? Do you think any of Alexander's choices were surprising, or were they completely consistent with his definition of a Gentleman?
I think small events or actions can trigger a chain reaction that has a significant impact. Obviously the more important a person is the bigger the impact they have (Stalin for example) but when you consider how Mishka's life changes as a result of walking past a particular statue it shows how small things can have a big impact. If he'd walked a different way everything would have turned out differently. Similarly, Mishka's poem being published with the Count's name on it had a huge and unexpected effect.
I think his choices were pretty consistent with his character. I think what surprised me was his sudden decision to leave the hotel. It seemed to come from nowhere.
40. What do you think caused Alexander to plan Sofia's escape? Knowing that he may never see Sofia again, why do you think he stayed in Russia with Anna - is he just a bee who has found his honey? And finally, do you agree with the statement: "One can revisit the past quite pleasantly, as long as one does so expecting nearly every aspect of it to be changed."
I don't think he wanted Sofia to end up spending her life in the hotel or being forced to do things she didn't want to do. He wanted her to be free to live her life on her own terms and experience everything. The trip to Paris was the opportunity he needed to get her away. I think despite everything he loves his country and his home and wanted to stay.
I think the quote about going back is probably true but I don't think it's particularly easy to accept the changes.
MAY 18: Question set 6Arrivedreci - And Anon, p. 395 - 462
34. Time is a prevalent theme in A Gentleman in Moscow, the writing skillfully depicting the passage of years in the life of a man, as well as a country. How that time is experienced, be it through watching the stars travel across the sky, marking the day with the twice-tolling clock, anxiously watching the second hand of a watch - how time is experienced seems to vary greatly depending on what you are doing with your life and how you are spending your time. Do you agree with the quote "...life does not proceed by leaps and bounds. It unfolds."? Have you experienced time passing differently at different stages of your life?
I do agree with that quote. Life is definitely a journey and unfolds as such. Certain parts may seem to go a bit faster than others, but it's still a steady telling of a story. I think that time seems to have passed differently when viewed in a certain way. For example, I feel like my childhood was a mere blip, but I distinctly remember thinking it was taking forever to grow up when I actually *was* a child.
35. One thing I didn't expect from this book was the wry humor, especially from the narrator. Little lines like: "The Swiss diplomat, who spoke both Russian and Italian perfectly, exemplified his nation's reputation for neutrality by listening to both men with his mouth shut," reminded me, in tone, of the quiet smiles that underlie Jane Austen's social commentary. What aspects of the book surprised you as you read? What aspects will you take away with you most strongly?
I agree, I was not expecting the humor of this book, but I loved it! I think it was my favorite part of the book: all the little quips made by both the Count and the narrator. I was also surprised by how much I was invested in the day to day life of someone on house arrest in Soviet Russia. Someone else said that not much is happening, but it's still so engaging! I'm glad I took a chance on this BOM.
36. Alexander is always analyzing chains of events, and how one decision or action led to another, then to another, i.e. what events led to him not being there for Helena's death, what events led to him meeting Nina, etc. What do you think Alexander was referring to when he said: "...in the end, it has been the inconveniences that have mattered to me the most." Do you think, throughout his life, he trusted to Fate more often, or grabbed his own destiny in his hands? Or is there one era of his life where he was more one way, and then changed?
I think he meant that the "inconveniences" in his life (being put on house arrest, having a small child unceremoniously shoved upon him) were what changed him and helped him grow the most. I think that he spent most of his life truly believing in Fate, but, during the course of his house arrest, he started trusting more making his own destiny. He started working, he stepped up to the plate when it came to Sofia, and, eventually, he successfully planned his escape. Alexander changed a lot over the course of this novel.
37. There were gifts of significance throughout the novel: the Count giving Nina the opera glasses to observe the world from afar, Nina giving the Count the skeleton key to the hotel, wrapped in a Matryoshka package. What were some other gifts that stood out to you as you finished the book, material or spiritual?
I liked that Sophia used Helena's scissors that the Count had made sure to take with him to cut her hair and help in her escape. It was a nice little tie in. I can't think of any other particular ones, though.
38. He may have had his mustaches snipped, but it seems to me that Alexander remained a Gentleman throughout the story. I loved that he used a dueling pistol to waylay his nemesis, the Bishop, (does that make Alexander the Knight? Or perhaps the Castle?) but wouldn't shoot him because the Bishop wasn't an aristocrat (or, perhaps more importantly to the Count, a gentleman of honor.) What do you see as some of the biggest changes between the Old World Order society (Tsars, noble class, etc.) and New World Order society (apparatchiks, uniformity, etc.) as reflected in the book? What stays the same?
Human nature stays the same. Alexander even remarked about how the meetings in the ballroom were different but the attitudes of the assembled people were very similar to when duchesses' held court in the same ballroom. I suppose the biggest changes are the regulations, the overabundance of rules, and how everything can be seen as a sin.
39. The change to the country of Russia during the twentieth century: two World Wars, the shift to communism, etc. the idea that one person can have any effect on these epic events seems laughable. Yet, the novel ends with a striking moment of illumination: "But is setting upright the cocktail glass in the aftermath of the commotion, didn't he also exhibit an essential faith that by the smallest of one's actions one can restore some sense of order to the world?" And to bring another cooking metaphor into this, "...the events of an average day are as likely to transform who we are as a pinch of pepper is to transform a stew." What is your take on how single people or seemingly small events caused a chain reaction (there it is again) in the lives of other characters in the book? Do you think any of Alexander's choices were surprising, or were they completely consistent with his definition of a Gentleman?
A single person can definitely have a drastic effect on events. I mean, look at how Sophia changed Alexander's life. I don't think he would have ever thought of leaving the Metropol if she hadn't entered into the picture. I was a little shocked that he resorted to brandishing a weapon at the Bishop (even though he *totally* deserved it...) but I could see the reasoning behind it. He was desperate and he wasn't going to let that weasel ruin his plans. And he did it in a rather gentlemanly fashion. So, all in all, I think he retained his gentleman status throughout the novel.
40. What do you think caused Alexander to plan Sofia's escape? Knowing that he may never see Sofia again, why do you think he stayed in Russia with Anna - is he just a bee who has found his honey? And finally, do you agree with the statement: "One can revisit the past quite pleasantly, as long as one does so expecting nearly every aspect of it to be changed."
I think he saw what the new regime did to Nina and he didn't want Sophia to be taken in by it. He saw her trip as the perfect opportunity for her to escape and live a better life. I am surprised that he stayed in Russia instead of joining Sophia in Paris! That's what I was expecting, but I suppose, for his character, it makes sense. He willingly returned to Russia at the worst possible time for an aristocrat so why abandon it now? I do agree with that quote. If you don't have expectations, you can't really be disappointed.
MAY 18: Question set 6Arrivedreci - And Anon, p. 395 - 462
Edit: ok, now that I've posted the DQs to the site, some of these questions look long. Please excuse the length - I really loved the writing in this book, so most of the questions quote a few bits from the book, here and there :)
34. Time is a prevalent theme in A Gentleman in Moscow, the writing skillfully depicting the passage of years in the life of a man, as well as a country. How that time is experienced, be it through watching the stars travel across the sky, marking the day with the twice-tolling clock, anxiously watching the second hand of a watch - how time is experienced seems to vary greatly depending on what you are doing with your life and how you are spending your time. Do you agree with the quote "...life does not proceed by leaps and bounds. It unfolds."? Have you experienced time passing differently at different stages of your life?
Yes. I have experienced this.
35. One thing I didn't expect from this book was the wry humor, especially from the narrator. Little lines like: "The Swiss diplomat, who spoke both Russian and Italian perfectly, exemplified his nation's reputation for neutrality by listening to both men with his mouth shut," reminded me, in tone, of the quiet smiles that underlie Jane Austen's social commentary. What aspects of the book surprised you as you read? What aspects will you take away with you most strongly?
I loved the way humor was interwoven throughout the book even in the serious situations. Another aspect is the beautiful way human nature has been captured through various characters and incidents.
36. Alexander is always analyzing chains of events, and how one decision or action led to another, then to another, i.e. what events led to him not being there for Helena's death, what events led to him meeting Nina, etc. What do you think Alexander was referring to when he said: "...in the end, it has been the inconveniences that have mattered to me the most." Do you think, throughout his life, he trusted to Fate more often, or grabbed his own destiny in his hands? Or is there one era of his life where he was more one way, and then changed?
The Count has been trained to master his circumstances and though he acknowledges the ‘Chain of Events’ governing his life, he faces them successfully at all times.
37. There were gifts of significance throughout the novel: the Count giving Nina the opera glasses to observe the world from afar, Nina giving the Count the skeleton key to the hotel, wrapped in a Matryoshka package. What were some other gifts that stood out to you as you finished the book, material or spiritual?
The Count’s gift of the only photograph of him and Mishka and his grandmother’s scissors to Sofia, the gold coins left to his two friends – Emile and Andrey.
38. He may have had his mustaches snipped, but it seems to me that Alexander remained a Gentleman throughout the story. I loved that he used a dueling pistol to waylay his nemesis, the Bishop, (does that make Alexander the Knight? Or perhaps the Castle?) but wouldn't shoot him because the Bishop wasn't an aristocrat (or, perhaps more importantly to the Count, a gentleman of honor.) What do you see as some of the biggest changes between the Old World Order society (Tsars, noble class, etc.) and New World Order society (apparatchiks, uniformity, etc.) as reflected in the book? What stays the same?
I did not find much of a change. The biggest change was that aristocracy was abolished. But the relationship between the authorities and the common man remained the same even in the New World Order also.
39. The change to the country of Russia during the twentieth century: two World Wars, the shift to communism, etc. the idea that one person can have any effect on these epic events seems laughable. Yet, the novel ends with a striking moment of illumination: "But is setting upright the cocktail glass in the aftermath of the commotion, didn't he also exhibit an essential faith that by the smallest of one's actions one can restore some sense of order to the world?" And to bring another cooking metaphor into this, "...the events of an average day are as likely to transform who we are as a pinch of pepper is to transform a stew." What is your take on how single people or seemingly small events caused a chain reaction (there it is again) in the lives of other characters in the book? Do you think any of Alexander's choices were surprising, or were they completely consistent with his definition of a Gentleman?
The entire book revolves on single people or seemingly small events causing chain reaction. e.g the episodes of Helena, Nina, Sofia, Bishop, Anna, Victor Stepanovich and even Richard. Though Alexander’s choices were mostly consistent as a gentleman, he had to cater to Richard’s request to save Sofia’s future. He even went to the extent of pilfering things from various people for this purpose.
40. What do you think caused Alexander to plan Sofia's escape? Knowing that he may never see Sofia again, why do you think he stayed in Russia with Anna - is he just a bee who has found his honey? And finally, do you agree with the statement: "One can revisit the past quite pleasantly, as long as one does so expecting nearly every aspect of it to be changed."
Bishop’s spiteful effort to spirit Sofia away to The Red October Youth Orchestra at Stalingrad made the Count furious and only Anna’s clever countermove saved Sofia from that fate. But the Count realized that similar such attempts would be made in future to keep him in line which could make Sofia suffer . He loved his country and he ‘found his honey’ in Nizhny Novgorod like the bees and also joined Anna.
I totally agree with the statement. If one could adjust to the changed circumstances without rancor or expectations, life could always be pleasant.
Day 3 Discussion QuestionsMay 14 1926/Adieu - Addendum
14. The Count meets an Englishman in the bar and tells him what happened to his sister. What did you think of the story and were you surprised he told it to a stranger in a bar? Do you think he's right to feel responsible and do you think it is influencing his actions and behaviour?
I think sometimes it is a time, a place or a question posed in the right way that makes someone relate something that they always thought they would keep secret
Obviously it affects him and it is natural to feel guilt. This does not mean he is guilty. Nothing happens in isolation or due to only one person's actions, I think it is partly responsible for his attitude to life
15. On the night he decides to end things he involves himself in the discussion in the bar then hesitates at the edge of the roof. Do you think he would really have stepped off if he hadn't been interrupted? Why do you think he changed his mind after tasting the honey?
I think the author is portraying how the Count's life changes and adapts due to his philosophy. The Count believes in fate - that different things can happen according to the weather or food served at a meal. I think the Count would have jumped but fate intervened- at this point his philosophy of accepting fate meant he could not go back to the precipice again
16. "when you exile a man into his own country, there is no beginning anew" Do you agree that for a man like the Count his confinement to the hotel is a greater punishment than if he'd been exiled to another country? Would this be the case for everyone as the book suggests? It seemed like the Prince didn't suffer so much being subject to the Minus Six.
I am not sure that the experience is different with exile at home or abroad but i do think "confinement" is particularly difficult. Imagine not being able to visit a certain place ever again , maybe a place with memories.
17. I really like Nina as a character and loved the relationship between her and the Count so was surprised when she met him as an adult and was so cold towards him. Why do you think this was? Do you think they'll be reunited and become close again or are they heading in different directions?
As a child I think Nina enjoyed the way the Count treated her not as a child but as an adult. I think there may be specific reasons behind how she treats him as a young adult maybe she wants to fit in with her peers / perhaps they would not have understood the Count and judged her for it - i think we will find out more as the book progresses
18. Anna's fortunes changed dramatically. What did you think about how she dealt with it? Do you believe she has changed? What about her relationship with the Count? Were you surprised? Do you think it is serious and will last or are they just using each other?
I think she is playing to the needs of the time. I feel they are quite similar and each gets something from the other
19. The Count is working as head waiter in the restaurant and seems to have formed a real friendship with Andrey and Emile. What are your thoughts on Andrey and Emile and why do you think they get on so well? I absolutely loved the scene with Triumvirate and the bouillabaisse but was a bit confused as to why it was such a secret. Why was it so important to them and why did it cause such a strong emotional reaction?
I think the book is a series of assignations or events that fate creates. The friendship between these three would not have developed under any other circumstances. I think the author is creating a Life well lived in spite of adversity scenario. The emotional reaction is in response to the amount of effort put into its achievement. Towles is an extremely clever story teller he is transporting me into the Count's lives loves and his soul. The Count's character is fully three dimensional through the pages of a book. I am certain that the individual events are as important as the whole it is creating
20. What were your feelings on the meeting between the Count and Osip Ivanovich Glebnikov? He wants the Count to meet with him regularly to help him learn about the English and the French languages and cultures. Why do you think this is and why the Count? Do you think the Count will gain anything from this or is he heading for trouble
I think this was obvious in the meeting he wants to speak and understand these languages as "A native". He needs to understand spin and innuendo in order to portray the Russia in a positive light so that they are welcomed into the wider world family. He can't just say we shoot or imprison anyone who speaks against the status quo but rather he would want to say that their decisions make for a happy, contented population with equality and a government that cares about them etc etc. It has been the aim of every government to put a positive spin on their decision making. We only have to look at world events today to see that happening.
May 16 QUESTIONS
SECTION 1938/An Arrival - Addendum pages 229 - 317
21. Up to this point in the book we have seen many references to smell and taste and ingredients of both wine and food, what significance do you think this has on the book? Who do you think the mystery ingredient provider may be?
I am not sure i have even considered it. Obviously some ingredients have come to them by luck some from the actress and maybe other people to but i don't think it has any real significance.
22. The Count may be exiled, but he has no shortage of funds and it doesn't seem to come solely from his coin stash, why do you think that his money was not impounded by the court when he was placed into exile? What impact would that have had on the story? Do you think he is paying for the room he stays in
I think the wile is intended to limit his interaction with others, his ability to transmit a message opposite to the one the powers that be are wanting to send. I don't think they care about his money whether he did not have any.
23. What are your thoughts on Nina leaving Sofia with the Count? Would this be the way you would deal with the situation if faced with the same? If you were in a similar position, given the story thus far, would you feel as if you knew Sasha enough to do the same?
The count was her only choice perhaps her father would not support her husbands actions, perhaps he was no longer alive. When you have no choice you do what you have to. I would do ANYTHING to ensure the safety and welfare of my child and she did spend an inordinate amount of her childhood with him.
24. What are your thoughts on the "thimble" game? What do you think is says about Sofia, and what does it show us about the Count?
I think it is a lovely illustration of how they get to know each other
25. Do you think the count has after had to look after anyone else in his life or has he only ever been looked after? Do you think that the Count is changing more now than ever before in his life? What might be some indications that make you think the way you do?
Everything that happens to a person changes them in some way. This has to make the count less isolated but also less self centred - although i don't think i would have described him as self centred
26. What do you think are the ramifications of Sofia's presence? Do you think that we will see Nina again?
I am sure it said he never sees Nina again in the text - i took that to mean she won't reappear but maybe it just means up to that point
27. Do you think anything will happen to the count for going to the hospital? Why do you think that Osip helped him?
I am sure someone will try to heap consequences upon the count, perhaps the Bishop. I think the help has two prongs, firstly i believe that Osip has grown to admire the Count and their relationship is more than the business proposal that it started out as. Secondly the powers that be believe that Sofia has influential grandparents and so they would want to make sure she is given the best treatment
Day 3 Discussion QuestionsMay 14 1926/Adieu - Addendum
14. The Count meets an Englishman in the bar and tells him what happened to his sister. What did you think of the story and were you surprised he told it to a stranger in a bar? Do you think he's right to feel responsible and do you think it is influencing his actions and behaviour?
I think that as he was planning to end his life that day he thought to tell his story to someone and who better than a stranger. I do think he has guilt for what happened and feels invariably responsible.
15. On the night he decides to end things he involves himself in the discussion in the bar then hesitates at the edge of the roof. Do you think he would really have stepped off if he hadn't been interrupted? Why do you think he changed his mind after tasting the honey?
I think he was very serious about ending his life and would have stepped off, if not interrupted. I think tasting the apple flavour in the honey reminded him off a few things in life that haven't changed as it reminded him of his home and that gave him hope to continue his life.
16. "when you exile a man into his own country, there is no beginning anew" Do you agree that for a man like the Count his confinement to the hotel is a greater punishment than if he'd been exiled to another country? Would this be the case for everyone as the book suggests? It seemed like the Prince didn't suffer so much being subject to the Minus Six.
At first I found the confinment to a luxury hotel little ridiculous but then now that I think about it, it is a horrible punishment where life passes you by and you don't form any emotional relations with anyone. And yes so living a free life in another country is better than being confined in your own country where things that you loved are changing. The prince found a place in New Russia that the count can never because of his confinement.
17. I really like Nina as a character and loved the relationship between her and the Count so was surprised when she met him as an adult and was so cold towards him. Why do you think this was? Do you think they'll be reunited and become close again or are they heading in different directions?
Nina has always been serious about whatever she be interested in at a particular phase in her life, be it being a princess or a mathematician or a scientist. But it is sad to see that bubbly child getting so serious and cold. I hope their paths cross again and in a positive way.
18. Anna's fortunes changed dramatically. What did you think about how she dealt with it? Do you believe she has changed? What about her relationship with the Count? Were you surprised? Do you think it is serious and will last or are they just using each other?
I was at first surprised with her relation with the Count as she did not seem to like him much. But then I think how things went wrong for her and how she came out of it was written beautifully by the author. Also in her low-time, how she got back with the Count and stayed with him also made sense.
19. The Count is working as head waiter in the restaurant and seems to have formed a real friendship with Andrey and Emile. What are your thoughts on Andrey and Emile and why do you think they get on so well? I absolutely loved the scene with Triumvirate and the bouillabaisse but was a bit confused as to why it was such a secret. Why was it so important to them and why did it cause such a strong emotional reaction?
I somehow felt the kitchen scene in the night with Andrey and Emile was a bit dragged. I think it's nice that they found friends in each other. I think they were using hotel items including the food raw material which is hotel property for personal use outside normal hotel working hours and hence got a bot scared when the Bishop confronted them.
20. What were your feelings on the meeting between the Count and Osip Ivanovich Glebnikov? He wants the Count to meet with him regularly to help him learn about the English and the French languages and cultures. Why do you think this is and why the Count? Do you think the Count will gain anything from this or is he heading for trouble?
I think Osip wants to understand the mind-set of the royalty as in UK and France the higher positions are still occupied by Royalty and Russia has diplomatic relations with these countries. And count has a good understanding of the etiquette's. I hope it goes positive for the count.
Ugh I am just not getting into Gentleman in Moscow. It's so boring. Why did I need a detailed description of the Maitre'D's (spell?) hands and the various things he might have been with those hands? I also don't want to read about someone else sitting and reading. I'll give it a little longer since I hear it's supposed to pick up at some point.
i found it a bit difficult at times too. for me, how descriptive it was was a reflection on how he had so much extra time now that he was stuck in the hotel. he could analyze these things and had more time to pay attention. that's just my thought..
May 17 1950/Adagio.. - Achilles Agonoistes 321 - 394Discussion Questions
28: Sofia is now seventeen on the edge of adulthood, did you find the Counts reaction when he found Sofia alone with Victor Stepanovich an older man unexpected or natural?
I think he over reacted but she has had a very sheltered life
29: Over the years the Count and Richard Vanderwhile develop a friendship do you agree with the narrator of the book that people of similar social standing and upbringing will gravitate towards each other?
Yes - you have to have something in common with the people you make friends
30: The Count became very upset when he discovered Sofia And Anna had become acquainted without his knowledge. Why do you think he wished to keep his relationship with Anna and his life as Sofia's father separate?
I think he was trying to protect her innocence - keeping his buttons in separate boxes
31: Were you surprised when Richard asked the Count to spy? Do you think this request and the Count turning him down will effect their friendship?
I didn't see it coming but i suppose the Count was a sensible person to consider - i cant see how it will affect their friendship when they are in different countries
32: What did you make of Mishka's Manuscript on bread? Do you think bread holds a special place in the Russian consciousness after reading the quotes Mishka used?
I think it was a response to Misha being asked to take that part out of the manuscript I think a lot of Russians were hungry and that "bread" has a relationship to basic food requirements. It was a part of the book that did not really speak to me
33: As we come to the final part of book what do you imagine will become of the Count, Sofia and Anna?
I like to think he is planning to seek political asylum - at least for Sofia if not himself
MAY 18: Question set 6
Arrivedreci - And Anon, p. 395 - 462
Edit: ok, now that I've posted the DQs to the site, some of these questions look long. Please excuse the length - I really loved the writing in this book, so most of the questions quote a few bits from the book, here and there :)
34. Time is a prevalent theme in A Gentleman in Moscow, the writing skillfully depicting the passage of years in the life of a man, as well as a country. How that time is experienced, be it through watching the stars travel across the sky, marking the day with the twice-tolling clock, anxiously watching the second hand of a watch - how time is experienced seems to vary greatly depending on what you are doing with your life and how you are spending your time. Do you agree with the quote "...life does not proceed by leaps and bounds. It unfolds."? Have you experienced time passing differently at different stages of your life?
I think we can all agree that if you have to do something you dislike or don't want to do time in doing it passes slowly, a watched clock never moves or the wait towards something you look forward to is painfully slow. Yet the weekend away from work or a holiday passes in the blink of an eye.
Time is also dependant upon whether you are experiencing it now or looking back on it - it seems like 2 minutes since i first held my babies but they are fully grown with children of their own. Just a couple of months between visits to my family (they all live a distance away) and i feel like they have done so much living that i have missed.
35. One thing I didn't expect from this book was the wry humor, especially from the narrator. Little lines like: "The Swiss diplomat, who spoke both Russian and Italian perfectly, exemplified his nation's reputation for neutrality by listening to both men with his mouth shut," reminded me, in tone, of the quiet smiles that underlie Jane Austen's social commentary. What aspects of the book surprised you as you read? What aspects will you take away with you most strongly?
I loved the writing of this book i too enjoyed the humour but i also enjoyed his portrayal of the count as a philosophical being - his understanding of how you cannot change circumstance and you have to adapt to "live" life.
36. Alexander is always analyzing chains of events, and how one decision or action led to another, then to another, i.e. what events led to him not being there for Helena's death, what events led to him meeting Nina, etc. What do you think Alexander was referring to when he said: "...in the end, it has been the inconveniences that have mattered to me the most." Do you think, throughout his life, he trusted to Fate more often, or grabbed his own destiny in his hands? Or is there one era of his life where he was more one way, and then changed?
I think this relates to the philosophic outlook but i think by inconveniences he meant the smaller things not the larger inconvenience of not being able to leave the hotel for example.
37. There were gifts of significance throughout the novel: the Count giving Nina the opera glasses to observe the world from afar, Nina giving the Count the skeleton key to the hotel, wrapped in a Matryoshka package. What were some other gifts that stood out to you as you finished the book, material or spiritual?
I think Sofia gave the Count the gift of "relevance" without her I believe the Count would have taken his own life at some point. Their lives and those of the triumvirate, the seamstress etc were so much tied up in being a gift to each other
38. He may have had his moustaches snipped, but it seems to me that Alexander remained a Gentleman throughout the story. I loved that he used a dueling pistol to waylay his nemesis, the Bishop, (does that make Alexander the Knight? Or perhaps the Castle?) but wouldn't shoot him because the Bishop wasn't an aristocrat (or, perhaps more importantly to the Count, a gentleman of honor.) What do you see as some of the biggest changes between the Old World Order society (Tsars, noble class, etc.) and New World Order society (apparatchiks, uniformity, etc.) as reflected in the book? What stays the same?
Firstly i don't think the moustaches were what defined Alexander as a gentleman. He was a gentleman because of the way he interacted with others. Apart from that i am not sure if you are asking about the names, the people or the events. I don't think the Count thought the bishop was not a gentleman because he was not an aristocrat, after all neither the Chef nor the maitre D were aristocrats but i believe the Count considered them gentleman. I think The count was less worried about status that the political heavyweights of the time were.
39. The change to the country of Russia during the twentieth century: two World Wars, the shift to communism, etc. the idea that one person can have any effect on these epic events seems laughable. Yet, the novel ends with a striking moment of illumination: "But is setting upright the cocktail glass in the aftermath of the commotion, didn't he also exhibit an essential faith that by the smallest of one's actions one can restore some sense of order to the world?" And to bring another cooking metaphor into this, "...the events of an average day are as likely to transform who we are as a pinch of pepper is to transform a stew." What is your take on how single people or seemingly small events caused a chain reaction (there it is again) in the lives of other characters in the book? Do you think any of Alexander's choices were surprising, or were they completely consistent with his definition of a Gentleman?
I think his choices were consistent with his situation not necessarily his Gentleman status. Towles has created a character who wants to cope / rise above whatever is thrown at him. The characteristics that define him as a gentleman are imo not necessarily the things that drive his decisions on a day to day basis but are more related to the way he reacts to the decisions made for him - if that makes sense
40. What do you think caused Alexander to plan Sofia's escape? Knowing that he may never see Sofia again, why do you think he stayed in Russia with Anna - is he just a bee who has found his honey? And finally, do you agree with the statement: "One can revisit the past quite pleasantly, as long as one does so expecting nearly every aspect of it to be changed."
Russia was his home, his life and his solace he was a leopard too old to change his spots But he felt that Sofia deserved more just as every parent wants their child to experience more, go farther live better
Day 3 Discussion QuestionsMay 14 1926/Adieu - Addendum
14. The Count meets an Englishman in the bar and tells him what happened to his sister. What did you think of the story and were you surprised he told it to a stranger in a bar? Do you think he's right to feel responsible and do you think it is influencing his actions and behavior?
I liked the story and was glad to get more insight into the Counts past. I wasn't at all surprised he told into to a stranger in a bar - isn't that how these things are done? It's amazing how many people divulge their hard pasts to strangers, sometimes it's easier than saying it to friends.
15. On the night he decides to end things he involves himself in the discussion in the bar then hesitates at the edge of the roof. Do you think he would really have stepped off if he hadn't been interrupted? Why do you think he changed his mind after tasting the honey?
I think he would have jumped. I think he changed his mind at first simply due to shock. The return of the bees from the garden of his childhood home really sobered him up and left him unable to think of anything else, including suicide. Afterwards, I think he decided not to pursue a second attempt because the bees reminded him there are still new, exciting things out there and he can still experience them within the hotel. Also, if the bees can pursue new gardens, he can pursue a new path in life as well.
16. "when you exile a man into his own country, there is no beginning anew" Do you agree that for a man like the Count his confinement to the hotel is a greater punishment than if he'd been exiled to another country? Would this be the case for everyone as the book suggests? It seemed like the Prince didn't suffer so much being subject to the Minus Six.
I'm not sure. I want to say yes based on the way the book detailed the different types of exile, but it wouldn't be the case for everyone.
17. I really like Nina as a character and loved the relationship between her and the Count so was surprised when she met him as an adult and was so cold towards him. Why do you think this was? Do you think they'll be reunited and become close again or are they heading in different directions?
I don't think she was necessarily cold towards him. I think she is so caught up in her new pursuits that she doesn't fully register him. She's simply been taken out of the hotel whereas he has never moved. And I hope they are reunited and become close again.
18. Anna's fortunes changed dramatically. What did you think about how she dealt with it? Do you believe she has changed? What about her relationship with the Count? Were you surprised? Do you think it is serious and will last or are they just using each other?
I'm really like Anna. I thought she was a genus in the path she took to fix her career and like her relationship with the Count as well. I don't think they are too serious about each other, just that they find kindred spirits in one another.
19. The Count is working as head waiter in the restaurant and seems to have formed a real friendship with Andrey and Emile. What are your thoughts on Andrey and Emile and why do you think they get on so well? I absolutely loved the scene with Triumvirate and the bouillabaisse but was a bit confused as to why it was such a secret. Why was it so important to them and why did it cause such a strong emotional reaction?
It think it was a secret because the ingredients were now so rare and expensive they are no longer allowed. I loved the elaborate why they went to get the ingredients. It made me think of a child sneaking a cookie in the middle of the night, trying to hide it from his/her parents. Most of the enjoyment coming from the sneaking around without being caught. (I also think there may have been a famine going on).
20. What were your feelings on the meeting between the Count and Osip Ivanovich Glebnikov? He wants the Count to meet with him regularly to help him learn about the English and the French languages and cultures. Why do you think this is and why the Count? Do you think the Count will gain anything from this or is he heading for trouble?
I think he chose the Count because he needs to be taught how to be gentleman and how the aristocracy/privileged of foreign nations act and think. I imagine the Count is one of the few he can ask since most royalty was killed or banished during this time. And I imagine the help the Count provides will be his key to freedom.
May 16 QUESTIONSSECTION 1938/An Arrival - Addendum pages 229 - 317
#21. Up to this point in the book we have seen many references to smell and taste and ingredients of both wine and food, what significance do you think this has on the book? Who do you think the mystery ingredient provider may be?
Well the story is in a hotel, food and wine is a integral part of their life. I am not sure if there is any such provider at all.
#22. The Count may be exiled, but he has no shortage of funds and it doesn't seem to come solely from his coin stash, why do you think that his money was not impounded by the court when he was placed into exile? What impact would that have had on the story? Do you think he is paying for the room he stays in?
I think he is getting paid a wage for his job as a waiter and he does not have any responsibilities (before Sofia). His food and stay is now I think taken care of as part of the job.
#23. What are your thoughts on Nina leaving Sofia with the Count? Would this be the way you would deal with the situation if faced with the same? If you were in a similar position, given the story thus far, would you feel as if you knew Sasha enough to do the same?
I think it just goes to show how people in Russia did not know the real situation of the people exiled in labor camps... Nina was very confident she will be back in the one month and be able to take her daughter away with her after finding suitable living conditions. I don't think Nina has anyone left of her own to leave her daughter in a safe place and search for a husband. Her actions did make sense with me.
#24. What are your thoughts on the "thimble" game? What do you think is says about Sofia, and what does it show us about the Count?
The 'thimble' game was fun to read but how sharp they have shown sofia at the age of 5 is a bit unrealistic.
#25. Do you think the count has after had to look after anyone else in his life or has he only ever been looked after? Do you think that the Count is changing more now than ever before in his life? What might be some indications that make you think the way you do?
The count is definitely changing and has broken from his mold to take care of another human being.
#26. What do you think are the ramifications of Sofia's presence? Do you think that we will see Nina again?
I don't think Nina is coming back.
#27. Do you think anything will happen to the count for going to the hospital? Why do you think that Osip helped him?
I don't think anything will happen to the Count. Osip has helped count out as the Count has helped out Osip for 15 yrs now and they are kind of friends.
SECTION 1938/An Arrival - Addendum pages 229 - 317 #21. Up to this point in the book we have seen many references to smell and taste and ingredients of both wine and food, what significance do you think this has on the book? Who do you think the mystery ingredient provider may be?
The mystery ingredient provider is Anna. It comes in the envelope with the time which is how she and the Count know when to meet. I think the description of the food and wine brought out the importance of these to the Count and it also show how traveled he is and his refined taste. As this is set in a hotel it would have been odd to not have certain scenes. Also the affect the revolution had on the food and wine served in the country was also brought out.
#22. The Count may be exiled, but he has no shortage of funds and it doesn't seem to come solely from his coin stash, why do you think that his money was not impounded by the court when he was placed into exile? What impact would that have had on the story? Do you think he is paying for the room he stays in?
This has not been made clear in the book which I do find a little lacking in the story. I think his money was impounded along with his properties. I think the government is paying for his room. He doesn't need much as his meals are in the hotel. We haven't seen him make any extravagant purchases so he must be living a simple life. If he were want for money I think he would have started working at the restaurant much earlier as a source of income rather than as a way to pass his time. Also the coin stash is a secret that he will probably pass onto Sofia.
#23. What are your thoughts on Nina leaving Sofia with the Count? Would this be the way you would deal with the situation if faced with the same? If you were in a similar position, given the story thus far, would you feel as if you knew Sasha enough to do the same?
This seemed a little far fetched to me. Nina hasn't seen the Count in years and hasn't had a proper conversation after she has grown up. If she were as desperate as they have made it look then maybe this is OK. Since we have seen Sasha we know he is a good person but I don't know how Nina comes to the same conclusion as her observations of him are from her childhood memories.
#24. What are your thoughts on the "thimble" game? What do you think is says about Sofia, and what does it show us about the Count?
It seemed a harmless enough game. It seems too extraordinary that Sofia could find the thimble so easily every time. It also shows that the Count underestimated her and that taking care of her is not going to be easy. The Count is out of his depths and that shows.
#25. Do you think the count has after had to look after anyone else in his life or has he only ever been looked after? Do you think that the Count is changing more now than ever before in his life? What might be some indications that make you think the way you do?
I think the Count was never responsible for another human being. He did look out for his grand mother and for Helena to an extent. He is changing. The fact that he sought employment, learnt to sew, prepares his own breakfast instead of having bought to him and his looking after Sofia shows that he is a changed person.
#26. What do you think are the ramifications of Sofia's presence? Do you think that we will see Nina again?
Sofia has disrupted the Count's life in a good way. There is more meaning to his life. He is now responsible for another human being. He also has a family which I did not think would be possible considering his circumstances. I do not think either of them will see Nina again.
#27. Do you think anything will happen to the count for going to the hospital? Why do you think that Osip helped him?
I don't think there will be any repercussions. Osip helps me out as I think he maybe repaying the Count for his services. I wouldn't go so far as to call them friends.
MAY 18: Question set 6Arrivedreci - And Anon, p. 395 - 462
34. Time is a prevalent theme in A Gentleman in Moscow, the writing skillfully depicting the passage of years in the life of a man, as well as a country. How that time is experienced, be it through watching the stars travel across the sky, marking the day with the twice-tolling clock, anxiously watching the second hand of a watch - how time is experienced seems to vary greatly depending on what you are doing with your life and how you are spending your time. Do you agree with the quote "...life does not proceed by leaps and bounds. It unfolds."? Have you experienced time passing differently at different stages of your life?
Yeah, all the time. There are times when days stretch. And sometimes when you wonder, where did the days go. I especially notice this related to my kid. (They grow up so fast...)
35. One thing I didn't expect from this book was the wry humor, especially from the narrator. Little lines like: "The Swiss diplomat, who spoke both Russian and Italian perfectly, exemplified his nation's reputation for neutrality by listening to both men with his mouth shut," reminded me, in tone, of the quiet smiles that underlie Jane Austen's social commentary. What aspects of the book surprised you as you read? What aspects will you take away with you most strongly?
Didn't expect the book to be funny but I LOVED the wry humor.
I was most surprised with behavior of characters. They never did what I expected.
I think I will most remember the quiet dignity of some characters. Real gentlemens and ladies. Like Melanie from Gone with the Wind.
36. Alexander is always analyzing chains of events, and how one decision or action led to another, then to another, i.e. what events led to him not being there for Helena's death, what events led to him meeting Nina, etc. What do you think Alexander was referring to when he said: "...in the end, it has been the inconveniences that have mattered to me the most." Do you think, throughout his life, he trusted to Fate more often, or grabbed his own destiny in his hands? Or is there one era of his life where he was more one way, and then changed?
I think he means about Sophia who starts as inconvenience and becomes his daughter...
37. There were gifts of significance throughout the novel: the Count giving Nina the opera glasses to observe the world from afar, Nina giving the Count the skeleton key to the hotel, wrapped in a Matryoshka package. What were some other gifts that stood out to you as you finished the book, material or spiritual?
Nothing comes to my mind right now, except for the gift of friendship and help they all share.
39. The change to the country of Russia during the twentieth century: two World Wars, the shift to communism, etc. the idea that one person can have any effect on these epic events seems laughable. Yet, the novel ends with a striking moment of illumination: "But is setting upright the cocktail glass in the aftermath of the commotion, didn't he also exhibit an essential faith that by the smallest of one's actions one can restore some sense of order to the world?" And to bring another cooking metaphor into this, "...the events of an average day are as likely to transform who we are as a pinch of pepper is to transform a stew." What is your take on how single people or seemingly small events caused a chain reaction (there it is again) in the lives of other characters in the book? Do you think any of Alexander's choices were surprising, or were they completely consistent with his definition of a Gentleman?
I think Alexander stayed gentlemen until the end.
40. What do you think caused Alexander to plan Sofia's escape? Knowing that he may never see Sofia again, why do you think he stayed in Russia with Anna - is he just a bee who has found his honey? And finally, do you agree with the statement: "One can revisit the past quite pleasantly, as long as one does so expecting nearly every aspect of it to be changed."
Because he wanted her to see the world, not stay trapped under punishing regime until her death.
He stayed in Russia, because he has traveled and decided that Russia is his home. And Anna and Alexander share true love because they endure trough time and difficult circumstances.
I am not sure if we can ever visit the past. Our memories pale and change, so it'e never truly the same.
Day 3 Discussion Questions14. The Count meets an Englishman in the bar and tells him what happened to his sister. What did you think of the story and were you surprised he told it to a stranger in a bar? Do you think he's right to feel responsible and do you think it is influencing his actions and behaviour?
Not so surprising, I guess.
No of course he shouldn't feel responsible, but,of course he does...
Hmm... Not sure about that one...
15. On the night he decides to end things he involves himself in the discussion in the bar then hesitates at the edge of the roof. Do you think he would really have stepped off if he hadn't been interrupted? Why do you think he changed his mind after tasting the honey?
Yes, he would have stepped off, I think. I believe that the fact that the bees had come back and had been listening to them was kind of like a sign that he shouldn't?
16. "when you exile a man into his own country, there is no beginning anew" Do you agree that for a man like the Count his confinement to the hotel is a greater punishment than if he'd been exiled to another country? Would this be the case for everyone as the book suggests? It seemed like the Prince didn't suffer so much being subject to the Minus Six.
Well, it's the worst kind of punishment for a country-loving man... Imagine loving pastries, but being locked iaot he bathroom of a pastry-store for years in end (not a very good example, but...)
17. I really like Nina as a character and loved the relationship between her and the Count so was surprised when she met him as an adult and was so cold towards him. Why do you think this was? Do you think they'll be reunited and become close again or are they heading in different directions?
Hmmm... Seems like she grew up and forgot all about the kind man she used to play with... Already read ahead so...
18. Anna's fortunes changed dramatically. What did you think about how she dealt with it? Do you believe she has changed? What about her relationship with the Count? Were you surprised? Do you think it is serious and will last or are they just using each other?
I think that Anna is perseverant.
Already read ahead...
19. The Count is working as head waiter in the restaurant and seems to have formed a real friendship with Andrey and Emile. What are your thoughts on Andrey and Emile and why do you think they get on so well? I absolutely loved the scene with Triumvirate and the bouillabaisse but was a bit confused as to why it was such a secret. Why was it so important to them and why did it cause such a strong emotional reaction?
I dunno... So,etimes people are attracted to one another for the strangest reasons...
I guess... It was kind of like a secret meeting for them, something exclusive to them and on,y them. I wouldn't like it if the same thing happened to me.
20. What were your feelings on the meeting between the Count and Osip Ivanovich Glebnikov? He wants the Count to meet with him regularly to help him learn about the English and the French languages and cultures. Why do you think this is and why the Count? Do you think the Count will gain anything from this or is he heading for trouble?
This... I'm not so sure how this unfolded...
May 17 1950/Adagio.. - Achilles Agonoistes 321 - 394Discussion Questions
28: Sofia is now seventeen on the edge of adulthood, did you find the Counts reaction when he found Sofia alone with Victor Stepanovich an older man unexpected or natural?
Expected, and also very hilarious.
29: Over the years the Count and Richard Vanderwhile develop a friendship do you agree with the narrator of the book that people of similar social standing and upbringing will gravitate towards each other?
Hmmm... Probably, but people of opposite upbringings could also be attracted together,
30: The Count became very upset when he discovered Sofia And Anna had become acquainted without his knowledge. Why do you think he wished to keep his relationship with Anna and his life as Sofia's father separate?
Maybe... It was because he had two different worlds and didn't want them to mix? Or maybe he just didn't want Sofia to find out that he and Anna were having an affair?
31: Were you surprised when Richard asked the Count to spy? Do you think this request and the Count turning him down will effect their friendship?
Not surprised, but I wasn't expecting it.
Read ahead...
32: What did you make of Mishka's Manuscript on bread? Do you think bread holds a special place in the Russian consciousness after reading the quotes Mishka used?
Apparently, it does, which I know thx to a certain post in this thread
33: As we come to the final part of book what do you imagine will become of the Count, Sofia and Anna?
Read ahead...
May 16 QUESTIONSSECTION 1938/An Arrival - Addendum pages 229 - 317
#21. Up to this point in the book we have seen many references to smell and taste and ingredients of both wine and food, what significance do you think this has on the book? Who do you think the mystery ingredient provider may be?
(view spoiler)
#22. The Count may be exiled, but he has no shortage of funds and it doesn't seem to come solely from his coin stash, why do you think that his money was not impounded by the court when he was placed into exile? What impact would that have had on the story? Do you think he is paying for the room he stays in?
The money was hidden in the desk, so maybe that's why, but I'm not sure about the pay,ent of the room...
#23. What are your thoughts on Nina leaving Sofia with the Count? Would this be the way you would deal with the situation if faced with the same? If you were in a similar position, given the story thus far, would you feel as if you knew Sasha enough to do the same?
It was a selfish decision.
#24. What are your thoughts on the "thimble" game? What do you think is says about Sofia, and what does it show us about the Count?
She's one smart girl,
#25. Do you think the count has after had to look after anyone else in his life or has he only ever been looked after? Do you think that the Count is changing more now than ever before in his life? What might be some indications that make you think the way you do?
I think he's only been looked after.
Yes.
He's become a father, of course his life's changing,
#26. What do you think are the ramifications of Sofia's presence? Do you think that we will see Nina again?
Well, the count will become more protective...
Read ahead...
#27. Do you think anything will happen to the count for going to the hospital? Why do you think that Osip helped him?
Because they're friends...(view spoiler)
MAY 18: Question set 6Arrivedreci - And Anon, p. 395 - 462
Edit: ok, now that I've posted the DQs to the site, some of these questions look long. Please excuse the length - I really loved the writing in this book, so most of the questions quote a few bits from the book, here and there :)
34. Time is a prevalent theme in A Gentleman in Moscow, the writing skillfully depicting the passage of years in the life of a man, as well as a country. How that time is experienced, be it through watching the stars travel across the sky, marking the day with the twice-tolling clock, anxiously watching the second hand of a watch - how time is experienced seems to vary greatly depending on what you are doing with your life and how you are spending your time. Do you agree with the quote "...life does not proceed by leaps and bounds. It unfolds."? Have you experienced time passing differently at different stages of your life?
Ehh... I'm still quite young, so, I don't really have any big experiences, but there are the times when I get caught up in drawing and don't realize how much of the ang I've listened to :b there was also that time I fainted... Time passed weirdly then.
35. One thing I didn't expect from this book was the wry humor, especially from the narrator. Little lines like: "The Swiss diplomat, who spoke both Russian and Italian perfectly, exemplified his nation's reputation for neutrality by listening to both men with his mouth shut," reminded me, in tone, of the quiet smiles that underlie Jane Austen's social commentary. What aspects of the book surprised you as you read? What aspects will you take away with you most strongly?
Hmmm... It was funnier than I expected, and that is one of the aspects I'll be taking away,
Another is the richness of the writing... Truly magnifique!
36. Alexander is always analyzing chains of events, and how one decision or action led to another, then to another, i.e. what events led to him not being there for Helena's death, what events led to him meeting Nina, etc. What do you think Alexander was referring to when he said: "...in the end, it has been the inconveniences that have mattered to me the most." Do you think, throughout his life, he trusted to Fate more often, or grabbed his own destiny in his hands? Or is there one era of his life where he was more one way, and then changed?
By inconveniences, I think he means how he was placed under house arrest in the hotel, how he met Nina, and how he met Sofia.
He seems like a man who grabs his own destiny...
37. There were gifts of significance throughout the novel: the Count giving Nina the opera glasses to observe the world from afar, Nina giving the Count the skeleton key to the hotel, wrapped in a Matryoshka package. What were some other gifts that stood out to you as you finished the book, material or spiritual?
Well... Nothing really stood out, to be honest.
38. He may have had his mustaches snipped, but it seems to me that Alexander remained a Gentleman throughout the story. I loved that he used a dueling pistol to waylay his nemesis, the Bishop, (does that make Alexander the Knight? Or perhaps the Castle?) but wouldn't shoot him because the Bishop wasn't an aristocrat (or, perhaps more importantly to the Count, a gentleman of honor.) What do you see as some of the biggest changes between the Old World Order society (Tsars, noble class, etc.) and New World Order society (apparatchiks, uniformity, etc.) as reflected in the book? What stays the same?
Ummm... The use of nuclear power & the politics are different... But the sense of honor threat some have are the same.
39. The change to the country of Russia during the twentieth century: two World Wars, the shift to communism, etc. the idea that one person can have any effect on these epic events seems laughable. Yet, the novel ends with a striking moment of illumination: "But is setting upright the cocktail glass in the aftermath of the commotion, didn't he also exhibit an essential faith that by the smallest of one's actions one can restore some sense of order to the world?" And to bring another cooking metaphor into this, "...the events of an average day are as likely to transform who we are as a pinch of pepper is to transform a stew." What is your take on how single people or seemingly small events caused a chain reaction (there it is again) in the lives of other characters in the book? Do you think any of Alexander's choices were surprising, or were they completely consistent with his definition of a Gentleman?
He acted like a gentle,an maybe ninety percent of time, so, his decisions were almost always consistent.
As for events...
If the brute had not been in the barbershop at that time, the count wouldn't have met Nina. Of the count hadn't meant Nina, he would never have met Sofia. If he had never met Sofia, he might have never escaped...
40. What do you think caused Alexander to plan Sofia's escape? Knowing that he may never see Sofia again, why do you think he stayed in Russia with Anna - is he just a bee who has found his honey? And finally, do you agree with the statement: "One can revisit the past quite pleasantly, as long as one does so expecting nearly every aspect of it to be changed."
He probably love Russia too much to leave (though, tbh, he didn't strike me as a guy over zealous about his country)
Yeah, statement seems true enough,
Day 3 Discussion QuestionsMay 14 1926/Adieu - Addendum
14. The Count meets an Englishman in the bar and tells him what happened to his sister. What did you think of the story and were you surprised he told it to a stranger in a bar? Do you think he's right to feel responsible and do you think it is influencing his actions and behaviour?
Sometimes it's easier to tell things to strangers, knowing that you won't see them again.
15. On the night he decides to end things he involves himself in the discussion in the bar then hesitates at the edge of the roof. Do you think he would really have stepped off if he hadn't been interrupted? Why do you think he changed his mind after tasting the honey?
I don't think that he would have stepped off. I think he changed his mind because the flavor of the honey brought back memories of home.
16. "when you exile a man into his own country, there is no beginning anew" Do you agree that for a man like the Count his confinement to the hotel is a greater punishment than if he'd been exiled to another country? Would this be the case for everyone as the book suggests? It seemed like the Prince didn't suffer so much being subject to the Minus Six.
I'm not sure. I would think that being confined to a hotel can be stifling. Being exiled to another country, you are alone and have no sense of belonging or the culture.
17. I really like Nina as a character and loved the relationship between her and the Count so was surprised when she met him as an adult and was so cold towards him. Why do you think this was? Do you think they'll be reunited and become close again or are they heading in different directions?
I'm hoping that they reunite and become closer again. I think she was cold towards him because he was her childhood friend and she's an adult now and has moved on??
18. Anna's fortunes changed dramatically. What did you think about how she dealt with it? Do you believe she has changed? What about her relationship with the Count? Were you surprised? Do you think it is serious and will last or are they just using each other?
I was very surprised to hear how Anna's fortune changed. I don't think the two are serious and are just using each other because they are both available.
19. The Count is working as head waiter in the restaurant and seems to have formed a real friendship with Andrey and Emile. What are your thoughts on Andrey and Emile and why do you think they get on so well? I absolutely loved the scene with Triumvirate and the bouillabaisse but was a bit confused as to why it was such a secret. Why was it so important to them and why did it cause such a strong emotional reaction?
I like the three of them together. They've formed an unlikely friendship. I too was confused why the bouillabaisse was a secret. But it was such a bonding moment for them.
20. What were your feelings on the meeting between the Count and Osip Ivanovich Glebnikov? He wants the Count to meet with him regularly to help him learn about the English and the French languages and cultures. Why do you think this is and why the Count? Do you think the Count will gain anything from this or is he heading for trouble?
I think Glebnikov may be trouble, which is not good for the Count. I'm not sure hwy Glebnikov wants to learn English and French....possible political reasons?
May 17 1950/Adagio.. - Achilles Agonoistes 321 - 394Answers
28: Sofia is now seventeen on the edge of adulthood, did you find the Counts reaction when he found Sofia alone with Victor Stepanovich an older man unexpected or natural?
It was a natural reaction. Even predictable but it was still fun to read.
29: Over the years the Count and Richard Vanderwhile develop a friendship do you agree with the narrator of the book that people of similar social standing and upbringing will gravitate towards each other?
I think the author is right to a certain extent. An initial friendship is formed. But for it to turn into long lasting friendship there are other elements which come into picture like your values, interests and sometimes friendship can also exist between two people who look like they have nothing in common.
30: The Count became very upset when he discovered Sofia And Anna had become acquainted without his knowledge. Why do you think he wished to keep his relationship with Anna and his life as Sofia's father separate?
I like how Mariana had said that the Count likes to keep his buttons in separate boxes. They were two different parts of his lives and they did not need to mix for either of them to survive. The Count like to be in control of his situations and emotions and he must have thought that he would lose control of both if his lives intertwined.
31: Were you surprised when Richard asked the Count to spy? Do you think this request and the Count turning him down will effect their friendship?
Yes I was surprised. I did not see that coming. The Count turning it down seemed a wise decision and I do not think that it will affect their friendship.
32: What did you make of Mishka's Manuscript on bread? Do you think bread holds a special place in the Russian consciousness after reading the quotes Mishka used?
I initially thought Mishka's was going to bomb the library or kill someone.But when the Count get's the manuscript and begin's to read it I was smiling and laughing with the Count. Considering the food scarcity in Russia at the time I think bread held a lot of significance to the people. It was a symbol of plenty. Of old and better times and of the future with its bounty .
33: As we come to the final part of book what do you imagine will become of the Count, Sofia and Anna?
I thought they would show the Count and Anna passing on and maybe Sofia making her own life at the hotel.
MAY 18: Question set 6Arrivedreci - And Anon, p. 395 - 462
34. Time is a prevalent theme in A Gentleman in Moscow, the writing skillfully depicting the passage of years in the life of a man, as well as a country. How that time is experienced, be it through watching the stars travel across the sky, marking the day with the twice-tolling clock, anxiously watching the second hand of a watch - how time is experienced seems to vary greatly depending on what you are doing with your life and how you are spending your time. Do you agree with the quote "...life does not proceed by leaps and bounds. It unfolds."? Have you experienced time passing differently at different stages of your life?
I think ultimately I agree with the quote. You don't really notice time passing until all of a sudden you look back and all of these things have unfolded behind you. I've always agreed more with the quote that "Time Flies." It always seems to go by faster than I think.
35. One thing I didn't expect from this book was the wry humor, especially from the narrator. Little lines like: "The Swiss diplomat, who spoke both Russian and Italian perfectly, exemplified his nation's reputation for neutrality by listening to both men with his mouth shut," reminded me, in tone, of the quiet smiles that underlie Jane Austen's social commentary. What aspects of the book surprised you as you read? What aspects will you take away with you most strongly?
This whole book was a surprise for me in a lot of ways. I love history but rarely read General Fiction of any sort. I was surprised by how much I found myself immersed in this story and this world. I think the aspect that will stick with me the longest is the quality of the words and the description. There was so much richness in the writing in this novel.
36. Alexander is always analyzing chains of events, and how one decision or action led to another, then to another, i.e. what events led to him not being there for Helena's death, what events led to him meeting Nina, etc. What do you think Alexander was referring to when he said: "...in the end, it has been the inconveniences that have mattered to me the most." Do you think, throughout his life, he trusted to Fate more often, or grabbed his own destiny in his hands? Or is there one era of his life where he was more one way, and then changed?
I think when Alexander started out he was very much the Aristocrat who looked on his circumstances at first as an inconvenience. He let the world come to him for most of the story and relied on fate or circumstances to dictate to him what his next option should be. Most changes he looked at as inconvenient at the time, but looking back at those things he resisted, he sees the wonderful things that came from them (such as his daughter). Inconvenient they might have been, but they have given him his greatest joys and changed him and the course of his life more than he ever thought possible.
37. There were gifts of significance throughout the novel: the Count giving Nina the opera glasses to observe the world from afar, Nina giving the Count the skeleton key to the hotel, wrapped in a Matryoshka package. What were some other gifts that stood out to you as you finished the book, material or spiritual?
I think the most powerful gift in this story for me was the gift of friendship. The absolutely beautiful relationships that developed in this story and what they gave to each of the people involved. His circumstances could have driven the Count truly insane after all those years if it wasn't for the gift of friendship he received from those he used to look at as more like servants.
38. He may have had his mustaches snipped, but it seems to me that Alexander remained a Gentleman throughout the story. I loved that he used a dueling pistol to waylay his nemesis, the Bishop, (does that make Alexander the Knight? Or perhaps the Castle?) but wouldn't shoot him because the Bishop wasn't an aristocrat (or, perhaps more importantly to the Count, a gentleman of honor.) What do you see as some of the biggest changes between the Old World Order society (Tsars, noble class, etc.) and New World Order society (apparatchiks, uniformity, etc.) as reflected in the book? What stays the same?
I think one of the things that changed the most was the respect due to the social graces, the little tiny niceties. Politics and greater world issues of course changed drastically, but it was the little changes in decorum that most affected the Count and that which he struggled with.
39. The change to the country of Russia during the twentieth century: two World Wars, the shift to communism, etc. the idea that one person can have any effect on these epic events seems laughable. Yet, the novel ends with a striking moment of illumination: "But is setting upright the cocktail glass in the aftermath of the commotion, didn't he also exhibit an essential faith that by the smallest of one's actions one can restore some sense of order to the world?" And to bring another cooking metaphor into this, "...the events of an average day are as likely to transform who we are as a pinch of pepper is to transform a stew." What is your take on how single people or seemingly small events caused a chain reaction (there it is again) in the lives of other characters in the book? Do you think any of Alexander's choices were surprising, or were they completely consistent with his definition of a Gentleman?
Ultimately I think the choice to leave and finally break his confinement for good is actually the most surprising as it does break a lot of what Alexander thinks a Gentleman to be. A Gentleman wouldn't fight against his circumstances, steal, cheat, and lie to get what he wanted in life. But for his daughter, for himself finally Alexander finds that inner strength to effect the world rather than let the world keep effecting him.
40. What do you think caused Alexander to plan Sofia's escape? Knowing that he may never see Sofia again, why do you think he stayed in Russia with Anna - is he just a bee who has found his honey? And finally, do you agree with the statement: "One can revisit the past quite pleasantly, as long as one does so expecting nearly every aspect of it to be changed."
I found this ending to be quite interesting actually. I left with the feeling that his stop in with Anna was just for the two to meet up and then continue on after to meeting up with Sofia in America. But that that portion of the trip was really not important to who Alexander had become. This was closure to all that he had been, stopping in at his old home to say goodbye before moving on into a new life completely divorced from his past. And yes, I do agree with the statement. You can never go back, things will always be different from your memories, but that doesn't take away their strength and power. Accepting the present is different though is necessary to moving forward.
7. A Gentleman in Moscow references a lot of famous Russian literature (War and Peace, The Brothers Karamazov, Anna Karenina, etc.) and famous Russian authors (Leo Tolstoy, Fyodor Dostoyevsky, etc.). Have you read any Russian literature/any of the books the author cites? How is this novel similar or different to these works?I have read about half of Anna Karenina, but never got around to finishing it. Its on my list of books to read when I get a chance as I didn't mind the writing. I would love to read more Russian literature but they are time intensive with being so long, so I have to wait to get the time to devote to them.
8. The Count met a large cast of colorful characters in this section. Which encounter, vignette, or flashback was your favorite? Which one struck you the most?
I really liked when the Count, Emile and Andrey were stealing ingredients for the soup.
9. What do you think of Anna Urbanova? Do you think she will reappear in the story later?
10. The Count believes Anna has cast a sort of spell on him that is turning him more ghost-like. Is there evidence to support this? The Count vividly describes friendship in the last chapter of this section, Anonymity (on page 134). By his description, do you think the Count has any remaining friends?
I think people were so used to him that he was almost like a piece of the furniture, so he probably felt a bit ignored. However, besides the one chapter, this feeling didn't seem to be lasting.
11. The wine cellar seems to be a turning point in the Count’s perspective on his imprisonment. What did you think of his description of the wines? What are your thoughts on the Bishop? Do you think that he really orchestrated this change out of spite, or was it higher officials that brought this to pass?
I don't think it was necessarily out of spite, I just think he is covering up for his own incompetence and lack of knowledge by making it unnecessary to understand wine.
12. The narrator has a couple of lively footnotes in these chapters. Do you think the narrative voice is the Count, or someone else? How are the narrator and the Count similar or different? Do you think the Count is as happy or vivacious as the narrator seems to be? I think the narrator is the providing the footnotes, and I get the impression that he really likes the count and that is reflected in his account of the Count's life;
14. The Count meets an Englishman in the bar and tells him what happened to his sister. What did you think of the story and were you surprised he told it to a stranger in a bar? Do you think he's right to feel responsible and do you think it is influencing his actions and behaviour?I don't think he is right to feel responsible, as how could he have predicted the response of the other man, but I can understand why he would responsible for it. I'm sure it haunts him still.
15. On the night he decides to end things he involves himself in the discussion in the bar then hesitates at the edge of the roof. Do you think he would really have stepped off if he hadn't been interrupted? Why do you think he changed his mind after tasting the honey?
I can't imagine the Count actually taking the step and feel like he just needed some sign to not do it. Thankfully this was provided to him by tasting the honey.
16. "when you exile a man into his own country, there is no beginning anew" Do you agree that for a man like the Count his confinement to the hotel is a greater punishment than if he'd been exiled to another country? Would this be the case for everyone as the book suggests? It seemed like the Prince didn't suffer so much being subject to the Minus Six.
I think it is a worse fate as at least in another country he would be able to live life to its full. His movements and life are so restricted being confined to the environs of the hotel only.
17. I really like Nina as a character and loved the relationship between her and the Count so was surprised when she met him as an adult and was so cold towards him. Why do you think this was? Do you think they'll be reunited and become close again or are they heading in different directions?
I think she is just so pragmatic that she has lost the ability to really behave in an emotional way. Also, I think that she was probably at that age where someone the age of the Count is not so interesting as what he once was. Hopefully once she gets older she will be able to appreciate him again.
18. Anna's fortunes changed dramatically. What did you think about how she dealt with it? Do you believe she has changed? What about her relationship with the Count? Were you surprised? Do you think it is serious and will last or are they just using each other?
I think she dealt with it well as she learnt from what happened and would never take any good fortune for granted again. I wasn't surprised at all that they have become lovers, it sort of seemed inevitable after her reaction of his 'slight' the first time. I think they are both using each other but that it will last for quite some time as they suit each other's purposes and are quite fond of each other.
19. The Count is working as head waiter in the restaurant and seems to have formed a real friendship with Andrey and Emile. What are your thoughts on Andrey and Emile and why do you think they get on so well? I absolutely loved the scene with Triumvirate and the bouillabaisse but was a bit confused as to why it was such a secret. Why was it so important to them and why did it cause such a strong emotional reaction?
I love the relationship between the three and think that Emile is fabulous, I just wish he was given more scenes. I think the three of them miss the old ways and can reminisce about the golden days. I think in a time when ingredients may be hard to come by and so much effort was put into procuring them, it would spark and emotional reaction, especially if it was a beloved dish from their past.
20. What were your feelings on the meeting between the Count and Osip Ivanovich Glebnikov? He wants the Count to meet with him regularly to help him learn about the English and the French languages and cultures. Why do you think this is and why the Count? Do you think the Count will gain anything from this or is he heading for trouble?
#21. Up to this point in the book we have seen many references to smell and taste and ingredients of both wine and food, what significance do you think this has on the book? Who do you think the mystery ingredient provider may be?. I think food was incredibly important to the Count in his former life and it is why so much emphasis is put on it in the book. Being in the hotel, there probably also isn't a lot else for him to be passionate about. I think the mystery ingredient provider was Anna.#22. The Count may be exiled, but he has no shortage of funds and it doesn't seem to come solely from his coin stash, why do you think that his money was not impounded by the court when he was placed into exile? What impact would that have had on the story? Do you think he is paying for the room he stays in?
I have wondered this myself, about if he pays for the room and also why his money wasn't impounded. I really have no idea why he still has access to his funds.
#23. What are your thoughts on Nina leaving Sofia with the Count? Would this be the way you would deal with the situation if faced with the same? If you were in a similar position, given the story thus far, would you feel as if you knew Sasha enough to do the same?
I think she was a bit presumptuous in asking the Count to do that for her and I'm not sure if I would handle it the same way. But, I'm guessing she felt desperate and also though that the Count was a great companion for her when she was younger and that her daughter could be entrusted to him. Plus, its not like he was going anywhere.
#24. What are your thoughts on the "thimble" game? What do you think is says about Sofia, and what does it show us about the Count?.
She obviously has her mother's mind and can think laterally. It also showed that the Count underestimated how smart a girl of her age may be.
#25. Do you think the count has after had to look after anyone else in his life or has he only ever been looked after? Do you think that the Count is changing more now than ever before in his life? What might be some indications that make you think the way you do?
#26. What do you think are the ramifications of Sofia's presence? Do you think that we will see Nina again? .
I think we will see Nina again, but I think in the meantime Sofia will have a huge impact on the Count and he will get very attached to her.
#27. Do you think anything will happen to the count for going to the hospital? Why do you think that Osip helped him?
Discussion #11. I do not know much about Russian history or history in general as that was not one of my interest in school. As to Politics that is also something I don't know much about.
2. I think that there is a lot of meaning to the items he chose to take with him as with discover with the gold in the desk. I would take my pictures as a connection to the past. I would take my important documents and money as that is always useful.
3. I also like to finish things that I start especially reading materials. Maybe he just wants to find hidden knowledge or keep his mind working. Tilting of chair is quirky to us but normal for him. I like to read in so many different positions which others might find uncomfortable.
4. Practicalities might mean routines that he will follow to keep his mind sane and working towards some daily accomplishment. Being locked up can not be easy and that might be the way he choose to find meaning to his confinement. It may be to early but I always like books that give you an insight into character thought.
5. Gentleman might refer to the way he carries himself. So far he has acted as a perfect gentleman that has endeared himself to the hotel staff and to me the reader. So far I like him and want to learn more about him and how he thinks.
6. She may be a way for him to explore his surroundings and to interact with a carefree spirit. Too early for me to tell at this point.
I started this morning. I am a little confused why the count was banned to confinement? The poem he wrote? Anyway I found the initial interaction a little humurous, as well as the scene at the barber when the little man got mad and clipped the Counts mustache - what?
Day 1 Discussion QuestionsSection: June 5, 1922 - An Assembly pages: 1 - 76
1. Do you have much previous knowledge of Russian history and politics in the early 1900s? How does that affect how you feel at the start of the book?
(Note: Wikipedia states there was a Russian civil war in 1917 followed immediately by a Revolution from 1917 to October 1922 - which is the year our book starts.)
I don't know much about Russia in that time period.
2. I got a bit of a "Little Princess" vibe when the count was banished to the attic of the hotel. And there is a great section on saying goodbye to people vs. saying goodbye to possessions. "We carry them from place to place, often at considerable expense and inconvenience;...all the while allowing memories to invest them with greater and greater importance....But, of course, a thing is just a thing." What do you think of the possessions he elected to take with him to the attic? If you were in a similar situation, what is one thing you would for sure take with you?
I think it was an interesting collection of objects. The important thing is that they had meaning for him.
I would take my teddy bear since it has been with me since birth and has gone through everything with me.
3. What do you think about the Count and his reading habits? Specifically - how he is struggling with the Essays and how he likes to tilt back his chair. Can you relate to either or both of those?
While I don't usually tilt my chair, I do have a favorite place and position for reading. I would likely have trouble with a book of essays as well.
4. The Count has to decide how he will handle his confinement. He thinks of favorite literary characters, and finally decides he will commit to practicalities. What do you think that means, and is there anything he does in this early stage that you particularly admire?
He is stripping down his possessions and reducing the extravagances.
5. Why do you think it is called "A Gentleman in Moscow" instead of "A Count in Moscow"? Just because it sounds better, or do you think there is a reason? Do you find him an appealing character so far?
Perhaps it is a way of saying that a gentleman can be a count, but a count isn't necessarily a gentleman. So far I am enjoying the count.
6. Nina (the little girl in yellow) seems to be an important distraction. What is your impression of her so far? Do you think she will be an important character?
She seems to be a curious child and she seems to bring out some kindness from the count. I think she may very well become an important character.
Day 2 Discussion Questions
Section: Archeolgies – 1924: Anonymity, pgs. 77-145
(TW: question 13 addresses attempted suicide)
7. A Gentleman in Moscow references a lot of famous Russian literature (War and Peace, The Brothers Karamazov, Anna Karenina, etc.) and famous Russian authors (Leo Tolstoy, Fyodor Dostoyevsky, etc.). Have you read any Russian literature/any of the books the author cites? How is this novel similar or different to these works?
I was assigned to read Crime and Punishment back in high school, but I couldn't get into it. I think I made it to chapter 3 or something like that. Otherwise, I haven't really attempted any Russian literature.
8. The Count met a large cast of colorful characters in this section. Which encounter, vignette, or flashback was your favorite? Which one struck you the most?
I loved the scene with the dogs and the cat in the hotel lobby. That had me laughing out loud for a moment.
The scene in the wine cellar made me sad because with the labels being removed it was like they were trying to remove any sense of individuality; trying to make everything/everyone the same.
9. What do you think of Anna Urbanova? Do you think she will reappear in the story later?
I'm not all that crazy about her. Her attitude just rubbed me the wrong way. I won't be too surprised if she appears again later on.
10. The Count believes Anna has cast a sort of spell on him that is turning him more ghost-like. Is there evidence to support this? The Count vividly describes friendship in the last chapter of this section, Anonymity (on page 134). By his description, do you think the Count has any remaining friends?
11. The wine cellar seems to be a turning point in the Count’s perspective on his imprisonment. What did you think of his description of the wines? What are your thoughts on the Bishop? Do you think that he really orchestrated this change out of spite, or was it higher officials that brought this to pass?
The Count clearly enjoys the finer things and can appreciate the beauty of the individual bottle of wine. Bishop on the other hand doesn't care about that and very well could have orchestrated the change out of spite.
12. The narrator has a couple of lively footnotes in these chapters. Do you think the narrative voice is the Count, or someone else? How are the narrator and the Count similar or different? Do you think the Count is as happy or vivacious as the narrator seems to be?
At first, I thought the footnotes were coming from the Count because some of them seemed more like memories. One of the footnotes made me question that idea because it seemed to be more like a watcher who can see into the future. I think the Count is losing his vivaciousness as the story progresses.
13. The chapters in this section foreshadow the Count attempting suicide. We were left on quite a cliffhanger! What do you think has driven him to this point? As we are getting more of a window into his past, do you have any theories as to why the Count returned to Moscow in the first place? How do you like the Count as a protagonist thus far?
I am enjoying getting to know the Count better. He is an interesting and complex character. I think he is being driven by his loneliness and the inability to leave the hotel. After a while one tends to get cabin fever, and I think that is what is happening to the Count.
Day 3 Discussion Questions
May 14 1926/Adieu - Addendum
14. The Count meets an Englishman in the bar and tells him what happened to his sister. What did you think of the story and were you surprised he told it to a stranger in a bar? Do you think he's right to feel responsible and do you think it is influencing his actions and behaviour?
Sometimes it is easier to talk to strangers. The story was interesting and ultimately tragic. I think it is human nature to take more responsibility than deserved in situations like this. The story of his sister is certainly weighing on him and influencing his decision to attempt suicide.
15. On the night he decides to end things he involves himself in the discussion in the bar then hesitates at the edge of the roof. Do you think he would really have stepped off if he hadn't been interrupted? Why do you think he changed his mind after tasting the honey?
I think the amount of alcohol he consumed may have been to help him proceed with his plan. He may have stepped off the edge, even though deep inside he didn't really want to. I would say it was fate that the bees returned and he was stopped at the moment he was. The interruption gave him the reprieve he was hoping for.
16. "when you exile a man into his own country, there is no beginning anew" Do you agree that for a man like the Count his confinement to the hotel is a greater punishment than if he'd been exiled to another country? Would this be the case for everyone as the book suggests? It seemed like the Prince didn't suffer so much being subject to the Minus Six.
I think it would be a greater punishment because as stated in the book, there is no starting over. In another country, you would have a chance to build yourself back up and keep living, but being essentially trapped in your own home, you can't do that.
17. I really like Nina as a character and loved the relationship between her and the Count so was surprised when she met him as an adult and was so cold towards him. Why do you think this was? Do you think they'll be reunited and become close again or are they heading in different directions?
Part of it is Nina's age. She may have been embarrassed to have someone like the Count (a father figure or grandfather figure) speaking to her in front of her friends. His "exile" in the hotel could potentially hurt her standing in the movement. I am hoping she will see the light and will become reunited with the Count.
18. Anna's fortunes changed dramatically. What did you think about how she dealt with it? Do you believe she has changed? What about her relationship with the Count? Were you surprised? Do you think it is serious and will last or are they just using each other?
Anna has had quite a change in her life, but I think she is a survivor and will do whatever it takes to be successful. I wasn't thrilled about her relationship with the Count before and I'm still not thrilled with it. She is definitely using the Count.
19. The Count is working as head waiter in the restaurant and seems to have formed a real friendship with Andrey and Emile. What are your thoughts on Andrey and Emile and why do you think they get on so well? I absolutely loved the scene with Triumvirate and the bouillabaisse but was a bit confused as to why it was such a secret. Why was it so important to them and why did it cause such a strong emotional reaction?
The three men have developed a close bond over the years. The dinner was a secret because they were using food that was originally supposed to go elsewhere and they were "hoarding" the meal. Bishop could easily have ruined the whole thing by turning them in (and still might?)
20. What were your feelings on the meeting between the Count and Osip Ivanovich Glebnikov? He wants the Count to meet with him regularly to help him learn about the English and the French languages and cultures. Why do you think this is and why the Count? Do you think the Count will gain anything from this or is he heading for trouble?
I think Osip chose the Count because he is considered a "non person" and therefore can't really say no. I think the Count may be in dangerous territory with Osip. What is to stop him from making some kind of report and having the Count executed for his knowledge and what he may say?
Day 2 Discussion Questions7. A Gentleman in Moscow references a lot of famous Russian literature (War and Peace, The Brothers Karamazov, Anna Karenina, etc.) and famous Russian authors (Leo Tolstoy, Fyodor Dostoyevsky, etc.). Have you read any Russian literature/any of the books the author cites? How is this novel similar or different to these works?
I read War and Peace when I was young and ambitious =). This book does not feel the same. But I had to laugh on the observation of all the Russian names in those books - how every character has SO MANY. That is totally true, and made it really difficult to know who something was talking about.
8. The Count met a large cast of colorful characters in this section. Which encounter, vignette, or flashback was your favorite? Which one struck you the most?
I liked the one young man whose house was searched and they found a picture of the Tsar in one of his old school books and ended up banishing him from any of the big cities. He just rolled with the punches. I enjoyed that little vignette.
9. What do you think of Anna Urbanova? Do you think she will reappear in the story later?
I'm not sure if she will reappear - maybe? She seemed more self-assured than most ladies would be - and again, kind of a fun vignette as she took charge of...well everything!
10. The Count believes Anna has cast a sort of spell on him that is turning him more ghost-like. Is there evidence to support this? The Count vividly describes friendship in the last chapter of this section, Anonymity (on page 134). By his description, do you think the Count has any remaining friends?
I think he has lost most of his friends since he cannot go visit them/reciprocate. It is a lonely life.
11. The wine cellar seems to be a turning point in the Count’s perspective on his imprisonment. What did you think of his description of the wines? What are your thoughts on the Bishop? Do you think that he really orchestrated this change out of spite, or was it higher officials that brought this to pass?
I feel like it was the Bishop out of spite - I suspect the count made him feel inferior just because he (the count) knows so much.
12. The narrator has a couple of lively footnotes in these chapters. Do you think the narrative voice is the Count, or someone else? How are the narrator and the Count similar or different? Do you think the Count is as happy or vivacious as the narrator seems to be?
I think it is an omniscient narrator. I feel like the Count is much more serious.
13. The chapters in this section foreshadow the Count attempting suicide. We were left on quite a cliffhanger! What do you think has driven him to this point? As we are getting more of a window into his past, do you have any theories as to why the Count returned to Moscow in the first place? How do you like the Count as a protagonist thus far?
I really like him as a protagonist. And I feel sorry for him - he feels very isolated and alone, and even his friends go on without him, which is natural, but sad.
May 16 QUESTIONSSECTION 1938/An Arrival - Addendum pages 229 - 317
#21. Up to this point in the book we have seen many references to smell and taste and ingredients of both wine and food, what significance do you think this has on the book? Who do you think the mystery ingredient provider may be?
I think it shows how rich the Count's life is even in his "captivity". He enjoys and savors things much more than most people who are always on the run with somewhere else to go. I believe the mystery provider is the actress.
#22. The Count may be exiled, but he has no shortage of funds and it doesn't seem to come solely from his coin stash, why do you think that his money was not impounded by the court when he was placed into exile? What impact would that have had on the story? Do you think he is paying for the room he stays in?
I don't think he has funds beyond the hidden coin stash. I believe those gold coins are so valuable they are sustaining him, plus he has been working at the restaurant. And I don't think he is paying for his room, so how much else would he need to spend money on?
#23. What are your thoughts on Nina leaving Sofia with the Count? Would this be the way you would deal with the situation if faced with the same? If you were in a similar position, given the story thus far, would you feel as if you knew Sasha enough to do the same?
I think I would. The Count was a huge part of Nina's childhood, of course she trusted him. Also, I think Nina knew how dangerous her trip truly was, she always was very perceptive, so she did the best she could to keep Sonia safe.
#24. What are your thoughts on the "thimble" game? What do you think is says about Sofia, and what does it show us about the Count?
Sofia has a lot of her mother in her with the very serious way she goes about the game. But she also must have some mischievousness as well to be able to hide it so cunningly. The Count is shown to be willing to take on the role he needs for the child.
#25. Do you think the count has after had to look after anyone else in his life or has he only ever been looked after? Do you think that the Count is changing more now than ever before in his life? What might be some indications that make you think the way you do?
I think he looked after his sister a bit, though in that sense he acted as more of a guardian than a father, I think. But I think he is falling into the father role nicely. He is arranging his work and bedroom to fit her.
#26. What do you think are the ramifications of Sofia's presence? Do you think that we will see Nina again?
Doesn't sound like we are going to see Nina again, so I think Sofia keeps the Count young as all his friends grow older. Children give you something to live and fight for, so I think the Count will find that as well.
#27. Do you think anything will happen to the count for going to the hospital? Why do you think that Osip helped him?
I'm hoping Osip helped him because they have truly become friends. The Count seems to draw authentic friendships out of unusual places. I hope nothing comes of him leaving the hotel and that Osip is able to smooth things over.
May 17 1950/Adagio.. - Achilles Agonoistes 321 - 394Discussion Questions
28: Sofia is now seventeen on the edge of adulthood, did you find the Counts reaction when he found Sofia alone with Victor Stepanovich an older man unexpected or natural?
It was a natural reaction. Count is from the old world.
29: Over the years the Count and Richard Vanderwhile develop a friendship do you agree with the narrator of the book that people of similar social standing and upbringing will gravitate towards each other?
Yes, they have common topics to discuss and have similar view towards life.
30: The Count became very upset when he discovered Sofia And Anna had become acquainted without his knowledge. Why do you think he wished to keep his relationship with Anna and his life as Sofia's father separate?
Again from the old world and pocketed his life into different slots.
31: Were you surprised when Richard asked the Count to spy? Do you think this request and the Count turning him down will effect their friendship?
I did think that their friendship will be effected.
32: What did you make of Mishka's Manuscript on bread? Do you think bread holds a special place in the Russian consciousness after reading the quotes Mishka used?
It is just used to show what the government projects to its citizen and what the reality is. Mishka in his own poetic way is rebelling to this idea.
33: As we come to the final part of book what do you imagine will become of the Count, Sofia and Anna?
I thought the count will die at the end and Sofia will become a famous singer and live a fulfilling life....
MAY 18: Question set 6Arrivedreci - And Anon, p. 395 - 462
34. Time is a prevalent theme in A Gentleman in Moscow, the writing skillfully depicting the passage of years in the life of a man, as well as a country. How that time is experienced, be it through watching the stars travel across the sky, marking the day with the twice-tolling clock, anxiously watching the second hand of a watch - how time is experienced seems to vary greatly depending on what you are doing with your life and how you are spending your time. Do you agree with the quote "...life does not proceed by leaps and bounds. It unfolds."? Have you experienced time passing differently at different stages of your life?
I haven't personally experienced this.
35. One thing I didn't expect from this book was the wry humor, especially from the narrator. Little lines like: "The Swiss diplomat, who spoke both Russian and Italian perfectly, exemplified his nation's reputation for neutrality by listening to both men with his mouth shut," reminded me, in tone, of the quiet smiles that underlie Jane Austen's social commentary. What aspects of the book surprised you as you read? What aspects will you take away with you most strongly
At the start I thought a silly punishment to be exiled into a luxury hotel but then as time passed by it seeped into me how he became a fixture there when everyone's life moved on. Horrifying to be stranded in a place with a stilted life. Better to be exiled out of the country instead. I also liked how the Count took his life back in his hands and got a grip on things!! How he shaped his life around the hotel and lived the best he could.
36. Alexander is always analyzing chains of events, and how one decision or action led to another, then to another, i.e. what events led to him not being there for Helena's death, what events led to him meeting Nina, etc. What do you think Alexander was referring to when he said: "...in the end, it has been the inconveniences that have mattered to me the most." Do you think, throughout his life, he trusted to Fate more often, or grabbed his own destiny in his hands? Or is there one era of his life where he was more one way, and then changed?
I think he grabbed his destiny in his own hands. I think the turning point in his life was when Nina left Sofia with him (I couldn't have thought that this story was never meant to be about Nina and the Count but about Count and Sofia). So the destiny did play a hand in things.
37. There were gifts of significance throughout the novel: the Count giving Nina the opera glasses to observe the world from afar, Nina giving the Count the skeleton key to the hotel, wrapped in a Matryoshka package. What were some other gifts that stood out to you as you finished the book, material or spiritual?
None of the gifts stood out as such.
38. He may have had his mustaches snipped, but it seems to me that Alexander remained a Gentleman throughout the story. I loved that he used a dueling pistol to waylay his nemesis, the Bishop, (does that make Alexander the Knight? Or perhaps the Castle?) but wouldn't shoot him because the Bishop wasn't an aristocrat (or, perhaps more importantly to the Count, a gentleman of honor.) What do you see as some of the biggest changes between the Old World Order society (Tsars, noble class, etc.) and New World Order society (apparatchiks, uniformity, etc.) as reflected in the book? What stays the same?
I think the class structure prevails be it the royals ruling or the people high in the ruling party. So that bit does remain the same... After the monarchy was wiped out slowly through the passing years I observed that the old charm of gentlemanly behavior died out with it.
39. The change to the country of Russia during the twentieth century: two World Wars, the shift to communism, etc. the idea that one person can have any effect on these epic events seems laughable. Yet, the novel ends with a striking moment of illumination: "But is setting upright the cocktail glass in the aftermath of the commotion, didn't he also exhibit an essential faith that by the smallest of one's actions one can restore some sense of order to the world?" And to bring another cooking metaphor into this, "...the events of an average day are as likely to transform who we are as a pinch of pepper is to transform a stew." What is your take on how single people or seemingly small events caused a chain reaction (there it is again) in the lives of other characters in the book? Do you think any of Alexander's choices were surprising, or were they completely consistent with his definition of a Gentleman?
The last decision of his came as a surprise to me (and that is putting it mildly)
40. What do you think caused Alexander to plan Sofia's escape? Knowing that he may never see Sofia again, why do you think he stayed in Russia with Anna - is he just a bee who has found his honey? And finally, do you agree with the statement: "One can revisit the past quite pleasantly, as long as one does so expecting nearly every aspect of it to be changed."
Again I just don;t understand his motivation and I really wish the author would have delved into it a bit more!
When I decided to read this book, as with every other book, I had a certain expectations in line. But after twenty pages I found those expectations thrown against the wall. And after every chapter, page and word all my expectations were proven wrong, for the events kept unexpectedly changing, and drastically too. I'm not talking about the usual smooth-lane-changing, this is a sharp turn or occationally even a sharp U turn.I loved this book, it not only kept me intrested it kept hooked, and imagining what the next uphill had in store for me.
Day 1 Discussion QuestionsSection: June 5, 1922 - An Assembly pages: 1 - 76
1. Do you have much previous knowledge of Russian history and politics in the early 1900s? How does that affect how you feel at the start of the book?
(Note: Wikipedia states there was a Russian civil war in 1917 followed immediately by a Revolution from 1917 to October 1922 - which is the year our book starts.)
No not really, I have always wanted to read some russian novels but something always came up and it slipped out of my head.
2. I got a bit of a "Little Princess" vibe when the count was banished to the attic of the hotel. And there is a great section on saying goodbye to people vs. saying goodbye to possessions. "We carry them from place to place, often at considerable expense and inconvenience;...all the while allowing memories to invest them with greater and greater importance....But, of course, a thing is just a thing." What do you think of the possessions he elected to take with him to the attic? If you were in a similar situation, what is one thing you would for sure take with you?
I think he was fair in chosing the possessions in which to take with him. He combined practicality with sentimentality: the desk a gift of his godfather with its hidden treasure, the coffee table a reminder of his grandmother, the portrait of his sister and the clock a reminder of his father. And of coarse the ambassodor for himself. I don't think I would have made a much different choice. I would definetly would have taken the books.
3. What do you think about the Count and his reading habits? Specifically - how he is struggling with the Essays and how he likes to tilt back his chair. Can you relate to either or both of those?
Who wouldn't struggle with such a book. I wouldn't even consider reading it, even if deprived of choice. As for the reading habit of tilting the chair back, I won't be judgmental, we all have our own to get to that special pace where you either like the book or hate it.
4. The Count has to decide how he will handle his confinement. He thinks of favorite literary characters, and finally decides he will commit to practicalities. What do you think that means, and is there anything he does in this early stage that you particularly admire?
I'm not exactly sure of that. But he tried to his best to adjust to his new circumstances. And it went fine till the moment when Nina showed at his table.
5. Why do you think it is called "A Gentleman in Moscow" instead of "A Count in Moscow"? Just because it sounds better, or do you think there is a reason? Do you find him an appealing character so far?
I think it's called A gentleman in Moscow because he's first and formost a gentleman, he was born and raised to be a gentleman and even after labeling him a Former Person they couldn't take that of him. And all who had met him in the years that followed kept using the honorifics title. And I totally love his charachter.
6. Nina (the little girl in yellow) seems to be an important distraction. What is your impression of her so far? Do you think she will be an important character?
I totally love Nina, she's young, curious and exactly what the Count needs at that juncture of his life.
Abir wrote: "When I decided to read this book, as with every other book, I had a certain expectations in line. But after twenty pages I found those expectations thrown against the wall. And after every chapter,..."I loved this book too, it was just so beautiful and seemed to be written with such warmth. So many of the characters just made me smile. It was a delight of a book.
34. Time is a prevalent theme in A Gentleman in Moscow, the writing skillfully depicting the passage of years in the life of a man, as well as a country. How that time is experienced, be it through watching the stars travel across the sky, marking the day with the twice-tolling clock, anxiously watching the second hand of a watch - how time is experienced seems to vary greatly depending on what you are doing with your life and how you are spending your time. Do you agree with the quote "...life does not proceed by leaps and bounds. It unfolds."? Have you experienced time passing differently at different stages of your life? Without a doubt, life passes quicker the older you get. When I was young, a year seemed and eternity, now I'm middle aged I find the years whip by so fast its scary.35. One thing I didn't expect from this book was the wry humor, especially from the narrator. Little lines like: "The Swiss diplomat, who spoke both Russian and Italian perfectly, exemplified his nation's reputation for neutrality by listening to both men with his mouth shut," reminded me, in tone, of the quiet smiles that underlie Jane Austen's social commentary. What aspects of the book surprised you as you read? What aspects will you take away with you most strongly
I was most surprised by how much I came to love the cast of characters. I truly feel sad that I have finished the book and will no longer get to spend time with the Count and his friends. I guess what I too away from this book was that sometimes BOMs can be a good thing to take part in because you may find an absolute gem of a book you would otherwise not have ever read.
36. Alexander is always analyzing chains of events, and how one decision or action led to another, then to another, i.e. what events led to him not being there for Helena's death, what events led to him meeting Nina, etc. What do you think Alexander was referring to when he said: "...in the end, it has been the inconveniences that have mattered to me the most." Do you think, throughout his life, he trusted to Fate more often, or grabbed his own destiny in his hands? Or is there one era of his life where he was more one way, and then changed?
I think he grabbed his own destiny, but I think he realised that no matter what choices you make or what happens in your life you never know where it will lead. That when an event may seem terrible or inconvenient at the time, they may eventually lead to something wonderful.
38. He may have had his mustaches snipped, but it seems to me that Alexander remained a Gentleman throughout the story. I loved that he used a dueling pistol to waylay his nemesis, the Bishop, (does that make Alexander the Knight? Or perhaps the Castle?) but wouldn't shoot him because the Bishop wasn't an aristocrat (or, perhaps more importantly to the Count, a gentleman of honor.) What do you see as some of the biggest changes between the Old World Order society (Tsars, noble class, etc.) and New World Order society (apparatchiks, uniformity, etc.) as reflected in the book? What stays the same?
I don't think things have changed that much, it just ended up with a different mob in power, but the power differentials were still there. The new world order may have resulted in a people from a different class taking hold of the country's reigns, but it didn't stop the fact that there were substantial differences in incomes and lifestyles from one group to the next.
40. What do you think caused Alexander to plan Sofia's escape? Knowing that he may never see Sofia again, why do you think he stayed in Russia with Anna - is he just a bee who has found his honey? And finally, do you agree with the statement: "One can revisit the past quite pleasantly, as long as one does so expecting nearly every aspect of it to be changed."
The only reason I can think of why he stayed in Russia, was that he felt he was too old to move to an unfamiliar country. I think he loved a lot about Russia and just wanted to be home in the place of his childhood. However, I think the author left it open ended enough that there is still the possibility that he plans to leave Russia with Anna but just wanted to see his childhood home once more before leaving and maybe wait for the investigation of his disappearance to cool down before leaving. I find it hard to believe that he would be ok with never seeing Sofia again.
Day 2 Discussion QuestionsSection: Archeolgies – 1924: Anonymity, pgs. 77-145
(TW: question 13 addresses attempted suicide)
7. A Gentleman in Moscow references a lot of famous Russian literature (War and Peace, The Brothers Karamazov, Anna Karenina, etc.) and famous Russian authors (Leo Tolstoy, Fyodor Dostoyevsky, etc.). Have you read any Russian literature/any of the books the author cites? How is this novel similar or different to these works?
I am really ashamed to say I have not... I saw the movie Anna Karenina, but I didn't enjoy it so I didn't read the book. I feel I may try to read maybe war and peace this summer ??
8. The Count met a large cast of colorful characters in this section. Which encounter, vignette, or flashback was your favorite? Which one struck you the most?
I was really intrigued with his encounter with the prince and the note the author add to the story mentionning he will be important further on in the book... I really wonder what it will be and if it is in any way relied to his attempted suicide ?
9. What do you think of Anna Urbanova? Do you think she will reappear in the story later?
I think she looks like a spoiled brat ! She only invited the count to prove that she can have anyone even if they don't like her at first.. I think she did it because she is famous and she is not used to being turned down by someone the way the count did.. Maybe she will come to the hotel in the future, but she won't want to talk to the count and maybe he will be really upset by it.
10. The Count believes Anna has cast a sort of spell on him that is turning him more ghost-like. Is there evidence to support this? The Count vividly describes friendship in the last chapter of this section, Anonymity (on page 134). By his description, do you think the Count has any remaining friends?
I think she cast a spell on him in a way that it showed him how imprisoned he really is in this hotel. He can do whatever he wants, but as soon as someone leaves the hotel, he cannot follow life with them outside... Anna just made him realized that. Also, he seems to be a ghost to all the people who are now used to see him around in the hotel like he is part of the furniture or something..
11. The wine cellar seems to be a turning point in the Count’s perspective on his imprisonment. What did you think of his description of the wines? What are your thoughts on the Bishop? Do you think that he really orchestrated this change out of spite, or was it higher officials that brought this to pass?
Also, it is a serie of realization that he is really imprisoned in the hotel... He now realize that the world is changing outside the hotel and he cannot do anything about this. The bishop seems to be really weird and don't like the count, maybe he has some friends in the government outside and he does not join the more "libertine" views of the count about enjoying great wine and all. As I said, maybe he has friends that following the bishop description of the count, they wanted to punish him further more.
12. The narrator has a couple of lively footnotes in these chapters. Do you think the narrative voice is the Count, or someone else? How are the narrator and the Count similar or different? Do you think the Count is as happy or vivacious as the narrator seems to be?
I think it is the count or someone else living in the hotel, because we never get to see what happens outside, and I like the author notes, it gives us another insight !
13. The chapters in this section foreshadow the Count attempting suicide. We were left on quite a cliffhanger! What do you think has driven him to this point? As we are getting more of a window into his past, do you have any theories as to why the Count returned to Moscow in the first place? How do you like the Count as a protagonist thus far?
I think he will feel like he has no impact on the world while being trapped in there... I don't know why he came back to Moscow but he seems it was to propagate some poems he was writing ! I really like the count because he seems to get really involved in whatever he is doing and he is very considerate of everyone even if he is a count.
Mod
1. Do you have much previous knowledge of Russian history and politics in the early 1900s? How does that affect how you feel at the start of the book?
I know a bit - listened to a fabulous biography of the Romanov dynasty earlier this year and I've read bit about Lenin too. I thought we'd see much more about the hotel sinking into dilapidation and being spurned as communism took hold. I was surprised that the senior party members still viewed it as the place to go.
3. What do you think about the Count and his reading habits? Specifically - how he is struggling with the Essays and how he likes to tilt back his chair. Can you relate to either or both of those?
I'm pretty easy going with reading - as long as I have a book I can read anywhere. The worst disaster is when I don't have a book! I loved, later on, his putting the Essays to good use as a support, and even more, his outrgae when Anna Karenina was substituted, with his comment that whilst physically they might be interchangeable, the contents were not at all comparable!
8. Which encounter, vignette, or flashback was your favorite? Which one struck you the most? Do you think the narrative voice is the Count, or someone else? How are the narrator and the Count similar or different? Do you think the Count is as happy or vivacious as the narrator seems to be?
I couldn't pick out any one, but it is all these little details and backstory that made the book so pleasurable, with layers and interest at all times. I loved the narrators voice, but didn't think it was the Count himself. Having finished, it felt more like Sofia?
13. How do you like the Count as a protagonist thus far?
I like him very much
15. On the night he decides to end things he involves himself in the discussion in the bar then hesitates at the edge of the roof. Do you think he would really have stepped off if he hadn't been interrupted? Why do you think he changed his mind after tasting the honey?
Ah! the serendipitous return of the honey bees with apple flavoured honey! I think it was about home always being in reach wherever you are.
17. I really like Nina as a character and loved the relationship between her and the Count so was surprised when she met him as an adult and was so cold towards him. Why do you think this was? Do you think they'll be reunited and become close again or are they heading in different directions?
I guess it is a good way to show the changing world outside, and how the totalitarian government affects good people as well as bullies (like the Bishop)
20. What were your feelings on the meeting between the Count and Osip Ivanovich Glebnikov?
I enjoyed them. I liked the meditations on film philosophy!
21. Up to this point in the book we have seen many references to smell and taste and ingredients of both wine and food, what significance do you think this has on the book?
I thin that when the Count is stuck in one space visually, it's important for him to be able to travel mentally through his books and through his taste buds & memory too. Plus, of course, the wonderful descriptions are essential to the feel of the story.
23. What are your thoughts on Nina leaving Sofia with the Count? Would this be the way you would deal with the situation if faced with the same? If you were in a similar position, given the story thus far, would you feel as if you knew Sasha enough to do the same?
Again, a subtle way of representing changing attitudes. When they first remet, Nina was seeing only positives from the regime, but now she sees the dangers of the capriciousness of the party leaders and would rather Sofia is in a safe, insulated space. Best option of a bad job?
28: Sofia is now seventeen on the edge of adulthood, did you find the Counts reaction when he found Sofia alone with Victor Stepanovich an older man unexpected or natural?
Completely natural! He's her father, after all.
30: The Count became very upset when he discovered Sofia And Anna had become acquainted without his knowledge. Why do you think he wished to keep his relationship with Anna and his life as Sofia's father separate?
It allows him some semblance of control over his life?
35. One thing I didn't expect from this book was the wry humor, especially from the narrator... reminded me, in tone, of the quiet smiles that underlie Jane Austen's social commentary. What aspects of the book surprised you as you read? What aspects will you take away with you most strongly?
I was actually listening to Pride & Prejudice in tandem with reading this in hardcopy, and the vibe was very similar indeed! I don't think I'd expected it to be as intricate and cosy. I think the UK cover is much better than the US cover in conveying that.
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39. Do you think any of Alexander's choices were surprising, or were they completely consistent with his definition of a Gentleman?
I think they were consistent with his definition for sure!
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Other thoughts: I was shockingly late in twigging that all the chapters started with A. and I couldn't fathom why that was so. Any thoughts?
Section: June 5, 1922 - An Assemblypages: 1 - 761. Do you have much previous knowledge of Russian history and politics in the early 1900s? How does that affect how you feel at the start of the book?
(Note: Wikipedia states there was a Russian civil war in 1917 followed immediately by a Revolution from 1917 to October 1922 - which is the year our book starts.)
Some - the only history I took in college was Russian history - the professor was great. I don't remember everything, but enough to have some solid context about the state of Russia at the start of the book.
2. I got a bit of a "Little Princess" vibe when the count was banished to the attic of the hotel. And there is a great section on saying goodbye to people vs. saying goodbye to possessions. "We carry them from place to place, often at considerable expense and inconvenience;...all the while allowing memories to invest them with greater and greater importance....But, of course, a thing is just a thing." What do you think of the possessions he elected to take with him to the attic? If you were in a similar situation, what is one thing you would for sure take with you?
It seems that, for all of his dilettante meanderings, the Count is quite skilled at maintaining his dignity and being very decisively practical - a gift from his Grandmother perhaps.
3. What do you think about the Count and his reading habits? Specifically - how he is struggling with the Essays and how he likes to tilt back his chair. Can you relate to either or both of those?
Those Montaigne essays are a legacy from his Father, but it is interesting how the first two essays he reads capture the contradictory nature of Russia, and the Count, through the book:
- By Diverse Means We Arrive at the Same End
-- When one is at another's mercy, sone should plead for one's life, or remain proud and unbent.
- Of Sadness
-- Sadness is an emothion best shared - or kept to oneself.
4. The Count has to decide how he will handle his confinement. He thinks of favorite literary characters, and finally decides he will commit to practicalities. What do you think that means, and is there anything he does in this early stage that you particularly admire?
Rather than dwelling on the enormous change in his circumstances, the Count decides to focus on the here and now, and retaining his dignity and character.
5. Why do you think it is called "A Gentleman in Moscow" instead of "A Count in Moscow"? Just because it sounds better, or do you think there is a reason? Do you find him an appealing character so far?
He doesn't stay a Count, but he is always a Gentleman.
6. Nina (the little girl in yellow) seems to be an important distraction. What is your impression of her so far? Do you think she will be an important character?
Yes - she is the child-like curiosity in the world that he needs to retain if he wants to keep sane in his new life.
Day 2 Discussion Questions
Section: Archeolgies – 1924: Anonymity, pgs. 77-145
(TW: question 13 addresses attempted suicide)
7. A Gentleman in Moscow references a lot of famous Russian literature (War and Peace,The Brothers Karamazov, Anna Karenina, etc.) and famous Russian authors (Leo Tolstoy, Fyodor Dostoyevsky, etc.). Have you read any Russian literature/any of the books the author cites? How is this novel similar or different to these works?
Some - great angst and honor, lost and found, seems to be prevalent themes. The Count seems to sidestep the personal angst, but is a beacon of honor.
8. The Count met a large cast of colorful characters in this section. Which encounter, vignette, or flashback was your favorite? Which one struck you the most?
11. The wine cellar seems to be a turning point in the Count’s perspective on his imprisonment. What did you think of his description of the wines? What are your thoughts on the Bishop? Do you think that he really orchestrated this change out of spite, or was it higher officials that brought this to pass?
The wine bottles seemes a metaphor for what the new regime was trying to do with the people of Russia, especially the former nobility: everyone is now equal, but some, of course, are more equal than others. Bishop, I'm sure, made it happen out of spite.
12. The narrator has a couple of lively footnotes in these chapters. Do you think the narrative voice is the Count, or someone else? How are the narrator and the Count similar or different? Do you think the Count is as happy or vivacious as the narrator seems to be?
I heard the narrator as a bit less of a gentleman than the count - observant and sweetly biting.
Day 3
May 141926/Adieu - Addendum
14. The Count meets an Englishman in the bar and tells him what happened to his sister. What did you think of the story and were you surprised he told it to a stranger in a bar? Do you think he's right to feel responsible and do you think it is influencing his actions and behaviour?
As a former bartender, I can attest to the fact that people tell strangers many MANY things in a bar. Sometimes its easier to pour out something bothering you to someone you may never meet again.
15. On the night he decides to end things he involves himself in the discussion in the bar then hesitates at the edge of the roof. Do you think he would really have stepped off if he hadn't been interrupted? Why do you think he changed his mind after tasting the honey?
He said his last confession, had his toast, and was ready to end it all - I expect that in his mind, it was a way of writing his own fate with honor and a dash of glory. The bees, the honey, reminded him that while you can't go home again, you can carry it with you in to a new life.
16. "when you exile a man into his own country, there is no beginning anew" Do you agree that for a man like the Count his confinement to the hotel is a greater punishment than if he'd been exiled to another country? Would this be the case for everyone as the book suggests? It seemed like the Prince didn't suffer so much being subject to the Minus Six.
I think the book is proof that this statement is false.
17. I really like Nina as a character and loved the relationship between her and the Count so was surprised when she met him as an adult and was so cold towards him. Why do you think this was? Do you think they'll be reunited and become close again or are they heading in different directions?
18. Anna's fortunes changed dramatically. What did you think about how she dealt with it? Do you believe she has changed? What about her relationship with the Count? Were you surprised? Do you think it is serious and will last or are they just using each other?
She is the female version of the count - independent thinking, flexible, a survivor without losing her dignity. When the life she had built was swept away, she didn't lose hope or give up - she adapted and made a new successful life for herself, just like Sasha.
19. The Count is working as head waiter in the restaurant and seems to have formed a real friendship with Andrey and Emile. What are your thoughts on Andrey and Emile and why do you think they get on so well? I absolutely loved the scene with Triumvirate and the bouillabaisse but was a bit confused as to why it was such a secret. Why was it so important to them and why did it cause such a strong emotional reaction?
They, all three, are true craftsmen of their trades, and believe that if you are going to do something, do it well. The bouillabaisse is representative of their appreciation for tradition, for uniqueness and for quality -- all characteristics that were seemed less important by the new regime.
20. What were your feelings on the meeting between the Count and Osip Ivanovich Glebnikov? He wants the Count to meet with him regularly to help him learn about the English and the French languages and cultures. Why do you think this is and why the Count? Do you think the Count will gain anything from this or is he heading for trouble?
Although Osip is of the new regime, he is, in character if not manners, more like the count, and a geltleman in his own way. He is also very sharp, so I expect that he will be an ally, not an enemy.
Day 3 Discussion QuestionsMay 14 1926/Adieu - Addendum
14. The Count meets an Englishman in the bar and tells him what happened to his sister. What did you think of the story and were you surprised he told it to a stranger in a bar? Do you think he's right to feel responsible and do you think it is influencing his actions and behaviour?
Sometimes it's easier to confide in stranger because even if they judge you, you'll probably never see them again...He is always talking about how chains of event influence everything and he seems to think that it was all his fault.
15. On the night he decides to end things he involves himself in the discussion in the bar then hesitates at the edge of the roof. Do you think he would really have stepped off if he hadn't been interrupted? Why do you think he changed his mind after tasting the honey?
I do think he felt desperate at this point, but I'm not so sure he would have jumped. When the men interrupted him, there was no going back to the edge of the roof. I think it is because the men was so simple and full of hope that it helped the count.
16. "when you exile a man into his own country, there is no beginning anew" Do you agree that for a man like the Count his confinement to the hotel is a greater punishment than if he'd been exiled to another country? Would this be the case for everyone as the book suggests? It seemed like the Prince didn't suffer so much being subject to the Minus Six.
At least when you're in another country you can escape those who punished you. When you stay close, they always know where you are and can come back whenever they want. I really feel being exile in your own country is worst..
17. I really like Nina as a character and loved the relationship between her and the Count so was surprised when she met him as an adult and was so cold towards him. Why do you think this was? Do you think they'll be reunited and become close again or are they heading in different directions?
She is being so involved with her cause that she cannot see everything around her. Maybe when she'll realize it is not such a holy cause, she will come back to the count...
18. Anna's fortunes changed dramatically. What did you think about how she dealt with it? Do you believe she has changed? What about her relationship with the Count? Were you surprised? Do you think it is serious and will last or are they just using each other?
I still don't like this caracter. Anna seems like a self serving person who will go at any lenght to get what she wants. Just think about the lie about being born in a town by the sea just to impress the count. I hope it is not serious.
19. The Count is working as head waiter in the restaurant and seems to have formed a real friendship with Andrey and Emile. What are your thoughts on Andrey and Emile and why do you think they get on so well? I absolutely loved the scene with Triumvirate and the bouillabaisse but was a bit confused as to why it was such a secret. Why was it so important to them and why did it cause such a strong emotional reaction?
They share a passion with food and wine, this is really something that unifies a group ! I think that in a time where it is nearly impossible to get such ingredient, they wanted to keep this for themselves.
20. What were your feelings on the meeting between the Count and Osip Ivanovich Glebnikov? He wants the Count to meet with him regularly to help him learn about the English and the French languages and cultures. Why do you think this is and why the Count? Do you think the Count will gain anything from this or is he heading for trouble?
I really don't know why he would come ask this from the count. Maybe he needs information that only the count could gather ? I feel this is a subterfuge to get close to him..
I was quite conflicted with this book. I really wanted, and expected, to like the book, based on all the five star reviews. I was expecting to have my socks blown off. I can't say they were though, socks stayed securely on my feet. At first, I was really taken with the writing style and the vividly painted imagery of the book. I loved the detail. After a certain point, however, I found my mind wandering, reading the words without really taking them in. I really just wanted it to get to the point. I am all for painting the picture, but I think there's a point where it becomes too much. I don't need to know every detail or every happening going on.
It reminded me of the few times I read through Stephen King. Really well written, but could have been shorter and gotten to the point quicker.
Nothing But Reading Challenges
Books mentioned in this topic
War and Peace (other topics)The Brothers Karamazov (other topics)
Anna Karenina (other topics)
Crime and Punishment (other topics)
The Idiot (other topics)
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Authors mentioned in this topic
Leo Tolstoy (other topics)Fyodor Dostoevsky (other topics)
Discussion Questions
28: Sofia is now seventeen on the edge of adulthood, did you find the Counts reaction when he..."
Thanks a lot, for the link.