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Telephone Calls Quote by Mikhail Bulgakov

“The lodger told Anfisa, Anna Frantsevna’s long-time and devoted housekeeper, to say, in case he received any telephone calls, that he would be back in ten minutes, and left together with the proper, white-gloved policeman. He not only did not come back in ten minutes, but never came back at all.” quote by Mikhail Bulgakov
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““The lodger told Anfisa, Anna Frantsevna’s long-time and devoted housekeeper, to say, in case he received any telephone calls, that he would be back in ten minutes, and left together with the proper, white-gloved policeman. He not only did not come back in ten minutes, but never came back at all.””

Mikhail Bulgakov

About This Quote

Source Novel: The Master and Margarita, 1967

A caretaker promises a brief return but never fulfills it, highlighting broken promises and abandonment.

In simple terms: Broken promises leave lasting disappointment.

Key Takeaway

Beware of relying on uncertain assurances.

Themes

trust betrayal absence

Mood

cautious melancholic

Type

philosophical reflective

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • business deals
  • customer service
  • legal contracts

Key Concepts

promise reliability disappointment

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you handle unmet expectations?
  • What safeguards can you set for promises?
A Different Perspective

Not all promises are kept; context may be beyond control.

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