Madame Zilensky and the King of Finland

by Carson McCullers

Start Free Trial

Summary

Download PDF PDF Page Citation Cite Share Link Share

Madame Zilensky, a renowned composer and music teacher, joins the faculty at Ryder College, New York, under the supervision of Mr. Brook. Her arrival, however, introduces a peculiar dynamic that leaves Mr. Brook in a perpetual state of unease. As he navigates through the quirks and curiosities of Madame Zilensky's life, he stumbles upon a startling revelation about her nature.

The Arrival of Madame Zilensky

Mr. Brook, diligent head of the music department at Ryder College, is filled with anticipation upon hiring Madame Zilensky. Her impressive credentials and reputation as both a composer and teacher seem to promise great contributions to the department. He extends his hospitality by arranging accommodation for her conveniently close to his own apartment.

First Impressions

From their initial meeting, Mr. Brook observes Madame Zilensky as a weary, tall woman, accompanied by her three sons and a Finnish servant. The boys, Boris, Sammy, and Sigmund, speak a bizarre mix of languages, refusing to enter rooms with carpets. This peculiarity sets the tone for the oddities that follow them.

Unsettling Observations

Despite having moved into their new home weeks prior, the Zilensky abode gives no signs of habitation. The perpetually open front door and the abandoned appearance of the house puzzle Mr. Brook, leaving him to question the veracity of their move.

Madame Zilensky's Professional Dedication

Professionally, Madame Zilensky exceeds expectations, showing boundless energy and dedication to her students. Her commitment is evident as she enriches her teaching environment with four pianos and devotes herself tirelessly to composing her twelfth symphony. Her industrious nature appears to leave no room for rest.

Tale of Contrasting Lives

Carson McCullers crafts a clear dichotomy between Mr. Brook and Madame Zilensky. While Mr. Brook thrives on structure and routine, Madame Zilensky embodies chaos and creative fervor. Yet, both share a profound solitude, he with his poetry and brandy by the fire, she with her children and relentless work.

The Crisis Unfolds

As their professional relationship continues, Mr. Brook becomes perplexed by Madame Zilensky’s fantastical storytelling. What appear to be mundane anecdotes are transformed into extraordinary tales, leaving Mr. Brook questioning their reality. His confusion crescendos with her bizarre claim of seeing the king of Finland—a country without a monarchy.

Mr. Brook's Revelation

In a moment of clarity, akin to a Joycean epiphany, Mr. Brook concludes that Madame Zilensky is a compulsive liar. Her narratives serve no deceitful purpose nor personal gain. Instead, her fabrications seem to enrich her monotonous existence, offering her a life beyond her all-consuming work.

The Confrontation

Mr. Brook confronts Madame Zilensky regarding her habitual falsehoods. She maintains her stance, asserting her story's truth, despite obvious contradictions. Witnessing the distress in her expression, Mr. Brook experiences a pang of guilt, feeling as though he is extinguishing a part of her essence.

Resolution

Ultimately, Mr. Brook refrains from pressing further, choosing instead to maintain a cordial conversation about the "King of Finland." Through this exchange, he acknowledges the harmless nature of her lies, recognizing them as a necessary escape for a woman whose life is otherwise consumed by her art.

Get Ahead with eNotes

Start your 48-hour free trial to access everything you need to rise to the top of the class. Enjoy expert answers and study guides ad-free and take your learning to the next level.

Get 48 Hours Free Access
Next

Themes

Loading...