ABOUT sixty years ago, when fortunes of millions had been made on the Volga with fairy-tale rapidity, Ignat Gordyeeff, a young fellow, was working as water-pumper on one of the barges of the wealthy merchant Zayev. Built like a giant, handsome and not at all stupid, he was one of those people whom luck always follows everywhereÑnot because they are gifted and industrious, but rather because, having an enormous stock of energy at their command, they cannot stop to think over the choice of means when on their way toward their aims, and, excepting their own will, they know no law. Sometimes they speak of their conscience with fear, sometimes they really torture themselves struggling with it, but conscience is an unconquerable power to the faint-hearted only; the strong master it quickly and make it a slave to their desires, for they unconsciously feel that, given room and freedom, conscience would fracture life. They sacrifice days to it; and if it should happen that conscience conquered their souls, they are never wrecked, even in defeatÑthey are just as healthy and strong under its sway as when they lived without conscience.

Out of the darkest depths of life, where vice and crime and misery abound, comes the Byron of the twentieth century, the poet of the vagabond and the proletariat, Maxim Gorky. Not like the beggar, humbly imploring for a crust in the name of the Lord, nor like the jeweller displaying his precious stones to dazzle and tempt the eye, he comes to the world - nay, in accents of Tyrtaeus this commoner of Nizhni Novgorod spurs on his troops of freedom-loving heroes to conquer, as it were, the placid, self- satisfied literatures of to-day, and bring new life to pale, bloodless frames.Like Byron's impassioned utterances, "borne on the tones of a wild and quite artless melody," is Gorky's mad, unbridled, powerful voice, as he sings of the "madness of the brave," of the barefooted dreamers, who are proud of their idleness, who possess nothing and fear nothing, who are gay in their misery, though miserable in their joy.Gorky's voice is not the calm, cultivated, well-balanced voice of Chekhov, the Russian De Maupassant, nor even the apostolic, well- meaning, but comparatively faint voice of Tolstoy, the preacher: it is the roaring of a lion, the crash of thunder. In its elementary power is the heart. rending cry of a sincere but suffering soul that saw the brutality of life in all its horrors, and now flings its experiences into the face of the world with unequalled sympathy and the courage of a giant.For Gorky, above all, has courage; he dares to say that he finds the vagabond, the outcast of society, more sublime and significant than society itself.His Bosyak, the symbolic incarnation of the Over-man, is as naive and as bold as a child - or as a genius. In the vehement passions of the magnanimous, compassionate hero in tatters, in the aristocracy of his soul, and in his constant thirst for Freedom, Gorky sees the rebellious and irreconcilable spirit of man, of future man - in these he sees something beautiful, something powerful, something monumental, and is carried away by their strange psychology. For the barefooted dreamer's life is Gorky's life, his ideals are Gorky's ideals, his pleasures and pains, Gorky's pleasures and pains.And Gorky, though broken in health now, buffeted by the storms of fate, bruised and wounded in the battle-field of life, still like Byron and like Lermontov,"- seeks the storm As though the storm contained repose."

The Man Who Was Afraid by Maksim Gorky: A poignant and deeply moving story, "The Man Who Was Afraid" explores the psychological landscape of a man plagued by fear and uncertainly. Gorky's vivid and evocative prose illuminates the inner life of his protagonist and offers insight into the human condition. Key Aspects of the Book "The Man Who Was Afraid": Psychological Landscape: The book offers a richly detailed exploration of the inner life of the protagonist, including his fears, doubts, and anxieties. Social Critique: Gorky's work is often characterized by its critique of social injustice and oppression, and "The Man Who Was Afraid" is no exception. Symbolism: The book makes use of rich symbolic imagery, including dreams and nightmares, to deepen the reader's understanding of the protagonist's psyche. Maksim Gorky was a Russian writer and political activist who played a significant role in shaping the cultural and literary landscape of the early 20th century. His works, including "The Man Who Was Afraid," "Mother," and "The Lower Depths," are known for their searing social critique, vivid characters, and powerful prose. Gorky's contributions to Russian literature and culture continue to be celebrated today.

Maksim Gorky's 'The Man Who Was Afraid' is a gripping narrative that delves into the complexities of human nature and society. Gorky's writing style is characterized by vivid descriptions and emotionally charged portrayals of the characters, creating a sense of realism that resonates with readers. The story unfolds against the backdrop of pre-revolutionary Russia, showcasing Gorky's keen observation of social issues and his insightful commentary on the human condition. Through the protagonist's inner turmoil and fear, Gorky explores themes of insecurity, self-discovery, and moral courage, making the reader question their own beliefs and values. The novel is a compelling reflection of the psychological and emotional struggles faced by individuals in a rapidly changing world. As a leading figure of Russian literature, Gorky's work continues to be studied and admired for its depth and relevance.

In 'Tales from Gorky,' Maksim Gorky weaves a tapestry of narratives that illuminate the human condition through the unvarnished lens of Russian life at the turn of the 20th century. Gorky's prose, alive with a potent mixture of realism and poignant lyricism, depicts a society rife with the struggles of the proletariat. The tales are meticulously crafted, reflecting Gorky's astute observations and his commitment to the literary traditions of naturalism and social realism. Within this context, 'Tales from Gorky' carries an air of timelessness, showcasing a literary style that resonates with both the tribulations and the enduring spirit of humanity. Maksim Gorky, born Alexei Maximovich Peshkov, stands among the vanguard of Russian literature, recognized for his profound influence on the development of socialist realism. His own experiences as a self-taught vagrant, often among the marginalized and impoverished, provided the impetus for his literary exploration of life's adversities. Gorky's activism and deep involvement in the revolutionary movement distinctly color his narratives, infusing his tales with an authenticity born of personal struggle. Scholars and enthusiasts of classic Russian literature will find 'Tales from Gorky' to be a compelling addition to their collections. Gorky's narratives are not merely stories; they are a lens through which we can revisit the socio-economic tapestry of a bygone era, and a voice advocating social reform and empathy amidst adversity. The book beckons readers to delve into the depths of raw humanity, offering a valuable historical perspective and lessons that echo far beyond their original context, making 'Tales from Gorky' a profound choice for reflection on the enduring human spirit.

In Gorky's 1902 dramatic masterpiece, a band of down-and-outers congregate to play cards, tell stories, and debate whether it is better to live without illusions or to maintain a romanticized worldview.

Alexei Maximovich Peshkov ( 28 March 1868 - 18 June 1936), primarily known as Maxim (Maksim) Gorky, was a Russian and Soviet writer, a founder of the socialist realism literary method and a political activist. Around fifteen years before success as a writer, he frequently changed jobs and roamed across the Russian Empire; these experiences would later influence his writing. Gorky's most famous works were The Lower Depths (1902), Twenty-six Men and a Girl, The Song of the Stormy Petrel, The Mother, Summerfolk and Children of the Sun. He had an association with fellow Russian writers Leo Tolstoy and Anton Chekhov; Gorky would later write his memoirs on both of them. (wikipedia.org)