Malingerers Page #2

"Malingerers" is a short story by Anton Pavlovich Chekhov that explores themes of human behavior, deception, and the complexities of illness. The narrative revolves around a group of patients who feign ailments to avoid responsibilities or gain sympathy. Chekhov, known for his keen psychological insights and social observations, delves into the motivations and dynamics of those who manipulate their circumstances. Through a blend of humor and poignancy, the story raises questions about the nature of truth and the lengths to which individuals will go to escape the demands of life.

								


And for the first time in her ten years of practice a doubt creeps into
Marfa Petrovna's mind. . . . She summons the other patients, and while
talking to them of their complaints notices what has hitherto slipped by
her ears unnoticed. The patients, every one of them as though they were
in a conspiracy, first belaud her for their miraculous cure, go into
raptures over her medical skill, and abuse allopath doctors, then when
she is flushed with excitement, begin holding forth on their needs. One
asks for a bit of land to plough, another for wood, a third for
permission to shoot in her forests, and so on. She looks at the broad,
benevolent countenance of Father Aristark who has revealed the truth to
her, and a new truth begins gnawing at her heart. An evil oppressive
truth. . . .

The deceitfulness of man!
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