Part 2, Chapter 4 Summary and Analysis

"From Island to Island" completes Part 2, talking about how prisoners at random meet others who help fill in the picture of their lives. The "special convoy," a rare form of transportation, which Solzhenitsyn enjoys three times, requires authorization from high officials. The special convoy is a taste of freedom, letting one hear the mundane matters over which the world squabbles—and makes one wants to weep or awaken them to reality: at any moment they could be dragged off. Pursuing property and position, fearing misfortune or yearning for happiness are senseless. It is enough not to freeze, thirst, or hunger, and to have healthy backs, legs, arms, eyes, and ears. They should not hurt loved ones or part in anger, lest that be how they are remembered after being arrested.

In prison, one learns that the world is...