The Gift intricately weaves together the artistic journey of Fyodor Konstantinovich Godunov-Cherdyntsev, a budding poet and writer, with his romantic evolution alongside Zina Mertz. Set against the backdrop of Berlin's Russian emigre community post-revolution, Fyodor navigates a frugal yet fulfilling existence as he delves into teaching, translating, and occasionally selling his writings. His quest is twofold: to discover his unique literary expression and to nurture his profound love for Zina.

A New Beginning

Our story kicks off on April 1, 1926, with Fyodor settling into a new dwelling, buoyed by the recent publication of his first poetry collection. Although he imagines receiving glowing critiques, his work remains largely overlooked. An evening visit to the Chernyshevskis, where he expects a positive review, turns into an "April fool's" prank, leaving him to observe the guests and visualize each perspective. Through the troubled gaze of Alexander Chernyshevski, Fyodor perceives a shadowy figure—an apparition tied to the tragic suicide of Alexander's son, Yasha, a failed poet. Revitalized by this mental exercise, Fyodor pens a poem on his way home, only to discover his key does not fit the lock.

A Summer of Literary Pursuits

Summer passes replete with satirical social gatherings, one of which brings a job offer for translation work. Yet, this opportunity slips away, as does the chance to meet Zina. Fyodor engages in an extensive and mentally fabricated discourse on Russian literature with poet and critic Koncheyev, highlighting the discussion's imaginative nature only at its conclusion.

A Reunion and Reflection

During Christmas, Fyodor's mother, Elizaveta Pavlovna, visits from Paris, and together they reminisce about their idyllic past in Russia, especially pondering the fate of Fyodor's father, a renowned entomologist missing since 1918. His father's mysterious disappearance haunts them, influencing Fyodor to begin a biography that he eventually abandons. This unfinished work, like his early poems, fails to capture his true literary essence.

Searching for Solace

With his current lodgings unsatisfactory, Fyodor, aided by Alexandra Chernyshevski, secures a room in the Shchyogolev household. Despite his dismay at the crassness of Boris Shchyogolev, the room's owner, he is drawn to a young woman's blue dress, signifying Zina's presence. Zina, constrained by her stepfather's oppressive environment, opts to nurture her romance with Fyodor discreetly, away from her home.

An Intellectual Pursuit

Fyodor, an enthusiastic chess problem creator, finds inspiration in an article on Nikolay Chernyshevski, a pivotal yet controversial figure in Russian cultural history. Fyodor's engagement with Chernyshevski's flawed yet fascinating writings leads him to craft a new book—a witty, stylistically elegant critique, positioning Chernyshevski as a flawed hero. This work, appearing as Chapter 4 of The Gift, provokes strong reactions but elevates Fyodor's prominence within the emigre literary community.

Love and Liberation

As the couple grapples with their lack of privacy, fortune intervenes when Shchyogolev secures a job in Copenhagen, temporarily leaving the apartment to Zina and Fyodor. They eagerly anticipate the Shchyogolevs' departure, envisioning a future together. However, after a final shared meal, they find themselves locked out, mirroring the novel's beginning. Despite this setback, Fyodor emerges triumphant, having found both his muse in Zina and his distinct literary voice.