St Petersburg is only mentioned once or twice. The story instead focuses on Nevsky prospect, a certain part of St. Petersburg. However, it is mentioned that St. Petersburg is full of officials and practical jobs, and thus artists are rare. Nevsky Prospect is presented as a street that is full of wonders and delights, a place everyone loves. However, it is also shown to be deceptive. It promises much, but gives little. Though it displays many beautiful things, only harm comes from pursuing them. This does not exactly fit with the idea that St. Petersbug is unfriendly to artists, though it does suggest that only the practical people (and artists are not practical people) will prosper, because only they will not pursue the beauties of Nevsky Prospect.