The story revolves around a group of bears that live in the forest and are struggling to survive due to the harsh winter conditions. The bears' leader, a large and powerful bear, decides to send out smaller bears to search for food while he stays behind with the cubs. As the days pass, the smaller bears return empty-pawed, and the group's situation becomes increasingly desperate. The leader bear realizes that they must venture out themselves if they are to survive. The story explores themes of survival, leadership, and the struggle between individual needs and the needs of the group.
By Vsevolod Garshin · First published 1884 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Social Commentary, Tragedy