Story within a Story

Aliokhin's house is two-storied, and so is "Gooseberries." Chekhov introduces the outer story as Ivan and Bourkin seek shelter from the rain in Aliokhin's house. Ivan tells a story about his brother, which becomes the inner story. At the end, Chekhov returns to the outer story as Ivan finishes his story and addresses his audience, and the men retire for the night. The outer story frames the inner story, yet the two are related by the character of Ivan and the themes presented. While some authors utilize a framing technique merely to add interest to the inner story, Chekhov relates both in a meaningful and interesting way. The themes of obsession and contentment presented in the inner story come to reflect on the characters of the outer story.

Chekhov is known for his innovative storytelling techniques, and the use of a story within a story...