Quote by Maxim Gorky: “Lies are the religion of slaves and masters. Truth is the God of the free man.”

This powerful quote distinguishes between falsehoods that perpetuate systems of control and the liberating power of truth. It argues that deception serves both oppressors and the oppressed, while genuine freedom is inextricably linked to embracing and living by honesty.

In a society marked by stark class divisions and oppressive regimes, Gorky's characters debated the value of comforting illusions versus harsh truths, reflecting the societal struggle for enlightenment.

Russian author and political activist who is considered a founder of Socialist Realism and was closely associated with the revolutionary movement of 1905 and the Bolshevik Revolution. His autobiographical trilogy beginning with Childhood is a landmark of Russian literature. He used his international fame to advocate for writers persecuted under Stalinist rule.