Question

Earlier, we discussed how Tolstoy uses language with a matter-of-fact connotation to highlight the underlying tension Ivan felt between his true emotions and what society expected him to feel. For example, Ivan’s reaction to the Caius syllogism conveys to readers Ivan Ilyich’s self-deception. On the surface, he seemed to simply feel that the logic could not be applied to him. Yet, that matter-of-fact approach to an absurd conclusion provides evidence of the underlying fear Ivan carries throughout his final days. Describe another such example of matter-of-fact connotative language in The Death of Ivan Ilyich to portray a deeper struggle. Provide textual evidence in your response. Font Sizes

Answer 1

Tolstoy uses the matter of fact language in chapter 6 of this story.

He wants to express how Ivan Illych fails to distract his mind from dying but fails.

Ivan in this chapter wants to establish the old current and regain back his duties.

He even visits the court, sits with his colleagues, enter into conversations and often try to take part in proceedings.

But just as he is about to take up the proceeding, the pain hits again and his mind shifts back to where it was. 

Answer 2

In the story, Tolstoy uses the tone of matter of fact in order to express the feeling he went through when Ivan Ilyich tried to distract him from death.

However, he failed and he was having different thoughts.

Ivan would try to re-establish the old current by saying "I will take up my duties again—after all I used to live by them."