Tolstoy began the story with the first chapter, with the death of Ivan Ilyich and the narration of Pyotr Ivanovich, a close friend of Ivan. As demonstrated in the first chapter, the society the two lived in has obvious flaws. Piotr's narration suggests to the reader the materialistic and selfish motivations that individuals in society possessed. Furthermore, the reader understands that individuals in this materialistic society sought to obtain a pleasant and decent life. Additionally, the reader understands that individuals in this society are conformists, entirely concerned with the image they present of themselves to society. Tolstoy begins the story from Pyotr's point of view and narration because Pyotr is a standard representative of this imperfect society and his commentary addresses the major themes of the book. Beginning with Pyotr's reaction to Ivan's death, the reader gains an important understanding of the society addressed in the story. Firstly, the effect of the book's introduction with the death of Ilyich in which Pyotr is the narrator, allows the reader to recognize how the characters' society functions. Piotr being a standard representative of a rather imperfect society, demonstrates that society is filled with selfish and materialistic individuals. Society is based on class, wealth and social status. This is demonstrated in the first chapter, particularly when Pyotr and his colleagues first learn of Ivan's death. "...The first thought that came to the minds of each of the gentlemen of this office, upon hearing of the death of Ivan Ilyich, was the effect it would have on their own transfers and promotions or those of their knowledge. " (Tolstoy, p. 32) The initial reaction of individuals to death is not remorse,...... middle of paper ...... individuals in this society, and their need for doing what is considered “right” by society, in order to present this false image of themselves to society. Overall, the effect of Piotr's narration in the first chapter was very important in creating and outlining the main thoughts and themes of the story. Themes covered in the story included self-interested and materialistic society; the need to lead a pleasant and decent life; and the feeling that one must present oneself in a certain way to be accepted by society, even if that means presenting a false image of oneself. By beginning with Ivan's death and being able to observe society's reactions to Ivan's death, the reader gains an important understanding of the themes that will be discussed throughout the story and which are crucial to understand how Ivan Ilyich led his life..