In the World

"In the World" by Maxim Gorky is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around a young boy who finds himself in a new, oppressive job as a shop assistant in a boot store, where he faces harsh treatment from his master, his cousin, and the shop assistant. Through his experiences in the shop and the house, the protagonist is introduced to the darker aspects of society, including theft, socioeconomic struggles, and the complex relationships among the people involved in his life. The opening of the novel immerses readers into the protagonist's experiences as a shop-boy, detailing his interactions with his unkind master and the disdainful attitudes of his coworkers. He grapples with feelings of alienation and the disheartening nature of his new life, contrasting sharply with his previous, more independent existence. Introduced alongside him are a range of colorful characters, including his cousin Sascha and a rather sadistic cook, bringing to life the oppressive atmosphere of the shop and the emotional unrest within the boy. These early chapters set the stage for a profound exploration of human nature and social commentary that spans Gorky's work.