What does the character of the short story the 'Lament' by Anton Chekhov want to do?

Answer 1

We would all agree that the very reason for the creation of emotion was to express it. Undeniably again, one thing worth calling an exclusive and most unique quality of a human is his ability to express emotions. Iona, the protagonist in the story, whose son has died just a week ago is desperately looking for someone whom he can exactly do the same.

It is believed that when emotions are expressed we share our pain and when we do so we relieve ourselves of carrying the entire load of agony all by ourselves. Iona well realizes this - alas!! only if he could actually do so! There seems to be no one who would share his anguish. Perhaps animals would understand us better and would rather be ready to listen to our grief. This is true at least for Iona who ultimately finds his own horse to share his pain with. It does not surprise us that the horse listens. It does surprise us, though, that we can't do what an animal can - to listen. Despite Iono's pain, he has gained one thing - the realization of the importance of sharing pain.

Answer 2

sad character