Chapter 6 For Awhile a Very Obscure One

After parting from Alyosha, Ivan walks home gripped by nameless depression that coalesces into aversion for Smerdyakov. At the gate, despite intending to pass by, Ivan sits and questions him about Fyodor.

Smerdyakov complains of being terrorized by Fyodor’s obsessive wait for Grushenka and Dmitri’s threats. He predicts a long epileptic fit, implying he might be unable to act as lookout. He details Fyodor’s secret knocking signals for Grushenka’s arrival and for emergencies, known only to him—and now to Dmitri, to whom he confessed under duress.

Ivan challenges his fear and hints of contrivance. Smerdyakov adds that Grigory and Marfa plan a potent rub-and-draught remedy that will make them sleep heavily, leaving the house unwatched if his own fit occurs. He further notes Dmitri’s dire need of money and Fyodor’s sealed envelope of three thousand roubles “for Grushenka,” and speculates Grushenka might even marry Fyodor, disinheriting the sons.

Ivan angrily rejects the idea Dmitri would steal, but is shaken. When Ivan asks why he was urged to go to Tchermashnya, Smerdyakov says it is better for Ivan to remove himself. In a surge of hostility Ivan nearly assaults him, then abruptly announces he will leave for Moscow in the morning.

Smerdyakov remarks Ivan could still be telegraphed for, and, when Ivan pointedly asks about Tchermashnya, agrees it is nearer. Ivan leaves laughing tensely, while Smerdyakov watches, his earlier familiarity replaced by cringing expectancy. The encounter leaves conditions primed for disaster.