The Lower Depths

The Lower Depths, also known as At the Bottom, is a poignant 1902 play by Russian playwright Maxim Gorky that dives into the lives of marginalized individuals living in a shelter by the Volga River. The narrative unfolds as these outcasts share stories and engage in card games, finding temporary hope through the arrival of a new resident named Luca. However, when he departs, the fragile optimism shatters, leading to tragic outcomes. Ultimately, the play explores the stark contrast between harsh realities and comforting illusions, critiquing a society that neglects its most vulnerable.