Maxim Gorky was a Russian writer, playwright, and activist. He is considered to be the founder of socialist realism and one of the most influential figures in Russian literature. Gorky wrote novels, short stories, plays, and essays that focused on the lives of the working class and the struggles of the Russian Revolution. He was also an advocate for social justice and human rights. Gorky's works have been translated into many languages and continue to be read and studied around the world.