Summary:
“Swan Song” is a short story by Anton Chekhov that explores themes of aging, regret, and the fleeting nature of artistic success. The story follows an aging actor named Vasili Svetlovidov, who, after a lifetime on stage, finds himself alone in an empty theater, reflecting on his past. He is confronted with the reality that his once-great career is coming to an end, and he has nothing left but memories of his glory days.
Through a conversation with the theater’s prompter, Nikita, Vasili expresses his deep sorrow over wasted opportunities, lost love, and the realization that fame is temporary. The story captures the melancholy of growing old and the fear of becoming irrelevant. Chekhov uses Swan Song as a metaphor for a final performance before fading into obscurity, emphasizing the impermanence of life and art.
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| Question | Answer |
| Book Name | Swan Song |
| Author | Anton Chekhov |
| Year Published | 1887 |
| Book Type | Short Story, Tragedy |
| Main Themes | Aging, Regret, The Fleeting Nature of Fame |
| Setting | An empty theater |
| Main Characters | Vasili Svetlovidov, Nikita Kruchkov |
| Symbolism | The “swan song” represents a final farewell or last performance |
| Tone | Melancholic, Reflective |
| Key Message | Art and fame are temporary, and time spares no one |
| Influence | Highlights the struggles of aging artists and the fear of irrelevance |