According to M. Saltykov-Shchedrin's novel "Poshekhonskaya Starina. The Life of Nikanor Zatrapezny, a Poshekhonsky Nobleman." The author of the notes, Nikanor Zatrapezny, presents a whole gallery of portraits of his family members. These include elderly lodgers who are kicked out of the house, aunties who are known for their self-indulgence, and ugly sisters who are unable to find suitable matches. The multitude of images and facts that arise in Nikanor's memory has a profound impact on him. After describing his childhood visions, he doubts that he will be able to continue writing.