The protagonist exhibits a fondness for poetry from a young age, particularly expressing admiration for archival materials that capture beauty and simplicity, as seen in his exclamation about a bird. His early exposure to poetry, possibly sourced from a magazine found in a villa, ignites a passion that leads him to memorize it eagerly. This interest in literature illustrates his intelligence and creative spirit.

His talent for memorization pleases his mother and draws the attention of Pasha, who recognizes the boy's potential and predicts a bright future for him as a doctor. This early enthusiasm for poetry highlights the interplay between art and intellect in his development, underscoring the impact of nurturing and encouragement in his formative years.