Part I, Chapter 21, Orphans Twice Over Summary and Analysis

In Part I, Chapter 21, Ginzburg notes that there is a lack of discipline at Krasin Street Prison, which allows prisoners to tap freely between cells. The prisoners also find creative ways to communicate, such as scribbling on scrap cigarette paper, and singing messages to each other. In one such message, Ginzburg receives news that her husband has also been arrested. She immediately worries about what will become of her children. Lydia consoles Ginzburg as she cries, telling her that God watches over fatherless children.

Ginzburg's husband has also been arrested, and she fears for the safety of her children. Stalin's horrors know no bounds as entire families are simply disappearing overnight. A devoutly religious prisoner, Lydia, comforts a grieving Ginzburg, telling Ginzburg that God will be watching over her children. Faith...