“Life is always surprising us—not by its rich, seething complexity, which is inexhaustible, but because, in spite of all its squalor and monotony, it sometimes throws up something so unexpectedly good that we are left breathless with wonder.”
My Apprenticeship is the second volume of Maxim Gorky’s autobiographical trilogy, following My Childhood. It chronicles his turbulent youth as he navigates poverty, exploitation, and self-education in late 19th-century Russia. The book is a raw, unflinching portrayal of hardship and resilience.
Early Struggles
Gorky leaves his abusive grandfather’s home and takes on menial jobs to survive. He works as a dishwasher, errand boy, and apprentice in various trades, facing cruelty from employers. Despite the harsh conditions, he finds solace in books and begins educating himself.
Encounters with Humanity
Throughout his travels, Gorky meets a diverse cast of characters—oppressed laborers, intellectuals, and criminals—who shape his worldview. Some inspire him with kindness, while others embody the brutality of Tsarist Russia. These interactions deepen his empathy and fuel his thirst for knowledge.
Intellectual Awakening
Gorky’s growing love for literature and philosophy becomes his escape. He befriends radical thinkers and begins questioning social injustice. His experiences harden his resolve to fight oppression, foreshadowing his later revolutionary ideals.
Turning Points
After a suicide attempt and a period of homelessness, Gorky finds work on a Volga steamship, where a cook mentors him and encourages his writing. This marks the beginning of his literary journey.
Conclusion
The book ends with Gorky on the cusp of adulthood, determined to rise above his circumstances. His apprenticeship—both literal and metaphorical—lays the foundation for his future as a writer and activist.
Key Ideas
- The brutality of poverty and child labor in Tsarist Russia.
- The transformative power of education and self-improvement.
- Resilience in the face of systemic oppression.
- The duality of human nature—cruelty and compassion.
- Literature as a means of escape and enlightenment.
Who should read this book?
- Readers interested in autobiographical accounts of social struggle.
- Fans of Russian literature and historical narratives.
- Those exploring themes of resilience and self-education.