What Men Live By, and Other Tales

"What Men Live By, and Other Tales" by Leo Tolstoy is a collection of short stories written in the late 19th century. The stories delve into themes of compassion, human connection, and existential truths that explore what it means to be human. Central to the opening story, "What Men Live By," is the character Simon, a poor shoemaker, who undergoes a journey of moral discovery and selflessness after encountering a mysterious, naked man in need. The opening of "What Men Live By" introduces Simon's struggles with poverty and the challenges he faces as he tries to provide for his family amid economic hardship. On his way to acquire sheepskins for a winter coat, he comes across a freezing man near a shrine. Initially filled with fear and self-interest, Simon's conscience compels him to help the stranger instead of ignoring his plight. He takes off his coat and offers it to the man, highlighting a transformative moment of empathy that sets the tone for the rest of the story. Through this encounter, readers begin to see the deeper questions regarding humanity, love, and the interconnectedness of people, foreshadowing the larger moral lessons Tolstoy will unfold.