Onegin moves into the “lovely country nest” (2.1.2) and is quickly bored. His intelligent approach to farming the land riles some of his “thrifty neighbors” (2.4.9); when the angry neighbors visit, he escapes them on a horse. Of all Onegin’s neighbors, he only has time for Vladimir Lensky. The “handsome youth” (2.6.7) Lensky has recently returned from Germany. He speaks highly of German writers such as Goethe and aspires to be a poet. Though he is only 18 years old, he speaks vibrantly and excitedly about love and optimism. Onegin and Lensky share a disdain for their older, rural neighbors. They are united by their bored sense of ennui and that they both have “no desire/For marriage bonds or wedding bell” (2.13.1-2), despite neighbors’ attempts to marry off their daughters to the eligible young bachelors.

Onegin and Lensky grow close. They talk about literature, history, science, and philosophy. The topic that most fascinates them, however, is love. Lensky fondly recalls his past romantic endeavors, while Onegin shares his romantic experiences in a regretful tone. Onegin sees Lensky’s optimistic view of love as naive and inexperienced. However, he enjoys listening to his friend and remembering his own past with “friendly condescension” (2.