The Shoemaker and the Devil Page #3

"The Shoemaker and the Devil" is a short story by Anton Pavlovich Chekhov that explores themes of morality, temptation, and the human condition. The narrative revolves around a humble shoemaker who encounters the devil, who offers him a deal that could change his fortune. As the story unfolds, the shoemaker grapples with the implications of his choices and the nature of good and evil. Chekhov's characteristic wit and insight into human psychology shine through, revealing the complexities of desire and the moral dilemmas we face.

								


"I make Bengal lights and fireworks. I am a pyrotechnician."

They began ringing for matins. Fyodor gave the customer the boots, took
the money for them, and went to church.

Carriages and sledges with bearskin rugs were dashing to and fro in the
street; merchants, ladies, officers were walking along the pavement
together with the humbler folk.... But Fyodor did not envy them nor
repine at his lot. It seemed to him now that rich and poor were equally
badly off. Some were able to drive in a carriage, and others to sing
songs at the top of their voice and to play the concertina, but one and
the same thing, the same grave, was awaiting all alike, and there was
nothing in life for which one would give the devil even a tiny scrap of
one's soul.

The Wife and Other Stories
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