Twenty-six and One, and Other Stories

"Twenty-six and One, and Other Stories" by Maksim Gorky is a compilation of short stories from the late 1800s that examines the difficult lives of working-class people, especially those who are tramps and laborers who are often ignored. The initial story, called "Twenty-Six and One," is about bakers working in terrible conditions. The author vividly illustrates their experiences along with their emotions. At the start of the collection, the tone is sad, describing the lives of twenty-six people working in a damp space, working to make biscuits and cakes. The despairing and boring environment is contrasted with quick instances of happiness and connection, especially when a happy chambermaid named Tanya brings them enjoyment. Despite all of this they manage to sing and share stories, emphasizing their shared humanity in the face of suffering, suggesting a profound expression of the human condition.