Something big happens in part 2, chapter 11. Anna and Vronsky sleep together! But you don’t get any description of their love scene. No, instead you get a detailed description of their anguish afterwards. Vronksy feels like a murderer (foreshadowing, anyone?) and Anna is convinced she no longer deserves happiness.
As for chapters 12-20, well…I’m not sure they had a point. Tolstoy could totally have edited them out, or condensed them into maybe two chapters, with one about Levin on his farm, and one about Vronsky dealing with judgy people while getting ready for his horserace. Nonetheless, here are haikus for part 2, chapters 11-20.
11. After a year, Anna and Vronsky finally get it on
I dreamt I was with
Them both, at once. What a nightmare.
No more happiness.
12. It’s spring on Levin’s farm
Easter came in the snow
For three nights rain fell in streams
Now old grass looks green
13. Spring is the time for plans and projects
Do as you are told
I tell my peasant workers
It’s a lovely spring
14. Stiva visits Levin on his farm
Stiva sleeps around
He has too many women
Meanwhile, I have none.
15. Levin takes Stiva hunting
One can see and hear
The grass growing. That’s all this
chapter is about.
16. Stiva sells his forest and that pisses Levin off
Stupid man rushes in
But he brings news of Kitty
He’s my only friend
17. Levin is cheered up
Kitty’s not married
But she’s ill over Vronsky
Sorta serves her right
18. Vronsky’s mom is worried
An affair is fine
And I like high class Anna
But don’t bend too much
19. Vronsky eats breakfast before riding in a horse race
Sad little man asks,
“You’re not afraid to get fat?”
Jerk. He’s the fatty.
20. Vronsky’s mom and brother write him a letter
Dear Mom & Bro.
What business is it of yours?
My life is my own.
Thanks for another great post.
Thanks, and thanks for reading!