After the death of his mother in 1788, kriloff entered the public service, but retired in two years, for he was drawn to literary pursuits and aspired to become an editor. He thought that a periodical printed by himself might bring him independence and fame. For several years he thus busied himself with magazines, the printing establishment, and new pieces for the stage. The Souls' Post issued monthly, was interesting and carried on brightly but, in the course of a year, it ceased from lack of public support. However, krilofi continued the printing business for himself and his partners. In 1792 he brought out a new journal.