Chapter 12 Summary

For the last three days of his life, Ivan screams. During that time, he struggles with the black sack. He suffers from being pushed into it, but he suffers even more by resisting it. He keeps hanging onto the notion that his life has been a good one, because he thinks the alternative view will be unbearable. However, this notion keeps him from going forward and causes more suffering.

Suddenly, Ivan is pushed through the hole and finds light at the bottom. He sees that he has not lived well, but it doesn't matter. Even though he hasn't done it, it can be done. What matters is to ask how it can be done.

Now, two hours before his death, Ivan grows quiet and ponders this question. At this moment, his young son, so full of compassion, catches Ivan's flailing hand and kisses...