The tone is one of longing and of angst until the end of the story, when both of the main characters realize that they must find a way to be together (Gurov and Anna) and that they are completely and utterly in love.  They are both married, however, but know they cannot continue to stay in their loveless marriages.  Through the beginning and middle of the work, Gurov meets Anna and has a physical and emotional relationship with her.  He cannot get her off of his mind once they return home and he finds himself going to "spy" on her.  He longs for her and cannot rid himself of the thoughts he has for her and neither can she.  They continue to see each other for several months before finally making the decision to be together no matter what it takes.