MAXIM GORKY SHOT.

Alexandra Herald and Central Otago Gazette, Issue 1211, 10 December 1919, Page 3

MAXIM GORKY SHOT.

FAMOUS RUSSIAN REVOLUTIONARY. The Russian novelist, Maxim Gorky, who, according tu a Copenhagen telegram, has been shot by Lettish troops, has probably enjoyed a succession of more varied experiences than any other modern writer. Bomo years ago he gave to the world his autobiography in brief. Here it is:—‘ 187S, shoemaker’s apprentice; 1579, draught man’s apprentice; ISSI*, scullion on a steamer; ISB3, baker; 1884, ha-11 porter; 1885, baker; ISSti, chorus singer in a travelling company; ISB7_, hawking apples in the street; IS3S, candidate for suicide; 1889, lawyer's copying clerk; 1891, tramping through Russia; 1893, railway navvy; IS9I, published my first story.' As ho acquired the power of writing Gorky began to poor forth his revolutionary principles/and was arrested by the Russian Government. /do was then exiled from his own country, and became the bitterest and most powerful opponent Russian despotism hud to face. It is not generally known that Gorky is a pseudonym. His real name was Alexei Tyeshkoff, bnt there are few who have a better right to adopt such a name ns Gorky, which is the Russian equivalent of ‘bitter.’

Gorky's attitude towards tho war was somewhat obscure,, though ho seemed to develop hostility to it when America joined the Alliance. When tho Russian debacle ensued and Bolshevism assumed sway ho wus given tho choice between short commons or high office in tho Red regime Ho tor of Fine Arts in Bolshevik Ruaaia. choso tho latter, and was made Minis-