Maxim Gorky 
Mother 
A Revolutionary Russian Classic

Maxim Gorky’s novel ‘Mother’ is a seminal work of Russian literature, depicting the struggles of the working class during the late 19th century. The book showcases Gorky’s gritty and realistic writing style, which captures the harsh realities of poverty and social injustice. Set against the backdrop of the Russian Revolution, ‘Mother’ explores themes of oppression, rebellion, and the power of the human spirit. Gorky’s vivid descriptions and well-developed characters make this novel a compelling read for those interested in social and political literature.

A propos de l’auteur

Maxim Gorky, a pseudonym for Alexei Maximovich Peshkov, stands as one of Russia’s most renowned and influential authors, whose literary career began in the tumultuous era of the early 20th century. Born on March 28, 1868, in Nizhny Novgorod, Gorky rose from a poverty-stricken childhood to become a leading figure in Russian literature, known for his unique blend of realism and romanticism, often termed as ‘romantic socialism.’ His writings frequently depicted the harsh realities of Russian life during a period of great social and political unrest, providing a voice to the lower classes and the proletariat. Gorky’s involvement with the Bolsheviks, particularly his relationship with Lenin, further colored his works with revolutionary fervor and socialist ideology. One of his most celebrated novels, ‘Mother’ (1906), epitomizes his literary approach by narrating the journey of a working-class woman’s transformation into a revolutionary, thus becoming a seminal text for socialist realist literature. Gorky’s influence on literary circles extended beyond his writings, as he mentored other Russian literary giants, such as Anton Chekhov and Vladimir Lenin. His prolific output, including plays, novels, short stories, and essays, continues to be studied for their profound social commentary and contribution to Russian and world literature. Gorky’s legacy endures in the breadth of his works and his unyielding commitment to the portrayal of the human condition within the framework of political struggle and transformation.