A Volga merchant's son inherits the barges, the money and the trade, and cannot make himself want any of it — he drinks, he asks people what life is for, and nobody in the merchant world has an answer. Gorky — the name means Bitter — was orphaned at eleven, worked as a dishwasher, baker and dock hand and shot himself at nineteen; this 1899 novel is the first great portrait of the class that was running Russia and did not know why.

In these intimate recollections, Maxim Gorky presents Leo Tolstoy not as a distant monument but as a living, shifting presence: ill, recovering, arguing, laughing, and thinking aloud about God, freedom, art, religion, and human duty. Drawn from notes made during Tolstoy's Crimea illness and from a later unfinished letter, the portrait remains fragmentary by design, preserving the immediacy of first impressions and the ache of loss after Tolstoy's death. Gorky captures his striking hands, h...

"The Spy: The Story of a Superfluous Man" is a novel by Russian author Maksim Gorky that delves into themes of existentialism, alienation, and societal critique. The story follows the protagonist, a man who feels out of place and unnecessary in the society around him.The novel is set against a backdrop of political and social unrest, and it explores the protagonist's feelings of being a "superfluous man" who struggles to find meaning and purpose. The character’s sense of disconnection and ...

"Twenty-Six and One, and Other Stories" is a collection of short stories written by the Russian author Maxim Gorky. Maxim Gorky, the pseudonym of Alexei Maximovich Peshkov (18681936), was a prominent and influential figure in Russian literature during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He is known for his works that explore the lives of the working class and address social and political issues.The collection "Twenty-Six and One, and Other Stories" likely includes a variety of short st...

In "Through Russia," Gorky depicts his travels across various regions of the country, providing observations and insights into the social, political, and cultural changes taking place in the aftermath of the revolution. The travelogue offers Gorky's perspectives on the state of the nation, the conditions of the people, and his encounters with different individuals and communities.Gorky's narrative reflects his support for the Soviet regime and his enthusiasm for the ideals of the revolutio...

This collection of stories revolves around the character of Orlâff and his wife, depicting their lives and experiences within the context of the Barefoot Brigade—a term used to describe the impoverished and downtrodden of society."Orlâff and His Wife" focuses on the daily struggles and challenges faced by the titular characters. Orlâff is often portrayed as a hard-working but beleaguered figure, while his wife supports the family despite their dire circumstances. The stories provide a vivi...

The characters include a diverse mix: thieves, prostitutes, alcoholics, and exiles, each bringing unique experiences and worldviews to the communal space. One of the central figures is Luka, an elderly wanderer who provides solace to the residents through tales of hope and compassion, advocating for empathy and kindness as a way to bear suffering. Conversely, Satine, a cynic, dismisses Luka's idealism, viewing it as a dangerous illusion that prevents people from confronting harsh realities...

In the book, Gorky vividly recalls his conversations with Tolstoy, reflecting on Tolstoy’s thoughts on religion, morality, and the social issues of the time. Tolstoy's passionate advocacy for nonviolence, simplicity in living, and spiritual awakening profoundly impressed Gorky, yet he also observed Tolstoy’s inner struggles, particularly his tensions with his aristocratic background and his own wealth, which clashed with his ideals of humility and asceticism.Gorky’s portrayal of Tolstoy is...

The story revolves around the character Ivan Semyonich, a peasant who has a reputation in his village for being extremely fearful and timid. He is known as "The Man Who Was Afraid" because he is easily frightened by even the smallest things. Ivan Semyonich's fear makes him the subject of ridicule and mockery among his fellow villagers.However, as the story unfolds, the reader discovers that there is more to Ivan Semyonich's fearfulness than meets the eye. He carries a dark secret from his ...

The novel centers on the character of a man who is undergoing a profound personal crisis. He reflects on his life and his actions, confessing his inner turmoil and struggles. The narrative delves into his psychological and emotional state, revealing his feelings of guilt, regret, and existential questioning.Gorky uses this introspective journey to explore broader themes such as the nature of human existence, the search for meaning, and the impact of one's actions on their sense of self. Th...

This book collects a magnificent set of works by Russian classical authors: Alexander Pushkin, Nikolai Gogol, Fyodor Dostoyevsky, Anton Chekhov, Leo Tolstoy, Mikhail Bulgakov. Each original story, springing from a common creative heritage, delivers a glimpse of the immortal Russian Soul and has influenced modern literary trends. These stories are interesting to their core and will bring pleasure to readers. Get ready to immerse yourself within these immortal works that have long been count...

The novel centers around three men—Yakob Ivanovich, Matvei Savvich, and Piotr Ivanovich—who live in a small provincial town in Russia. Each of these men represents different aspects of Russian society at the turn of the 20th century, and through their interactions and individual stories, Gorky explores the broader social, political, and philosophical issues facing Russia during this period.Yakob Ivanovich is a small-time shopkeeper, whose life is dominated by the mundane routines of his bu...