In the aftermath of the murder, Raskolnikov finds himself engulfed in a tumultuous state of mind. The chapter opens with him in a state of disarray, physically and psychologically. The weight of his crime bears heavily on him, manifesting as acute guilt and paranoia. He experiences vivid hallucinations, often replaying the murder in his mind, which exacerbates his internal conflict and sense of dread.

Raskolnikov avoids contact with others, fearing that his guilt will betray him. He becomes increasingly paranoid, convinced that he is being watched or that his crime will be discovered. This paranoia is compounded by his interactions with various characters, including his friend Razumihin, who expresses concern for Raskolnikov’s well-being. Razumihin’s genuine care contrasts sharply with Raskolnikov’s isolation, emphasizing the protagonist’s alienation.

During this chapter, Raskolnikov's thoughts oscillate between rationalizations of his crime and feelings of profound guilt. He tries to convince himself that he is justified in his actions, believing himself to be an 'extraordinary man' who is above moral law. However, these rationalizations fail to quell his conscience, and he is plagued by vivid dreams and unsettling thoughts, which reflect his deteriorating mental state.

He becomes acutely aware of the social environment around him, interpreting the behavior of others through the lens of his guilt. Raskolnikov’s encounters with his landlady and other residents of his boarding house further highlight his sense of alienation. Their mundane concerns seem trivial in contrast to the monumental moral crisis he faces.

The chapter culminates in Raskolnikov's decision to leave his apartment, a symbolic act that represents his struggle to escape the suffocating guilt that confines him. Outside, he is met with the chaotic energy of St. Petersburg, which mirrors his turbulent internal world. The bustling streets, filled with life and noise, serve as a stark reminder of his isolation and the moral decay he perceives in society.

Overall, this chapter is a profound exploration of Raskolnikov's psychological turmoil following the murder. It sets the stage for his continued conflict between his philosophical justifications for the crime and the overwhelming guilt that threatens to consume him. The tension between his internal struggles and the external world is palpable, creating a rich tapestry of psychological depth that characterizes Dostoevsky's narrative style.