Living Chronology

'A Living Calendar' is a dialogue-driven short story by Anton Chekhov that unfolds in the drawing-room of State-Councillor Sharamykin's house. The room is enveloped in a soft, green-tinted ambiance, created by a dimly lit lamp. Sharamykin, a grey-haired man with a gentle demeanor, sits in front of the fireplace, seemingly content after dinner. Vice-Governor Lopniev lounges on a stool nearby, engaged in conversation. Sharamykin reminisces about the town's past, expressing his disappointment in the declining quality of cultural events. He nostalgically recalls the visits of famous actors, singers, and performers who used to bring aesthetic pleasure to the community. He vividly recounts the talents of Luigi Ernesto di Ruggiero, an Italian tragedian, and Prilipchin, a charming tenore di grazia, both of whom left lasting impressions on him and his wife, Anna Pavlovna. The couple would organize performances for these artists and receive singing lessons in return.