Literal Summary:
* The Story: A young man named Michael, who has a physical disability, is struggling to make a living. He is constantly reminded by his wife, Natalia, that they are poor and need more money.
* Meeting the Stranger: One night, a mysterious stranger appears at their door. The stranger is a skilled craftsman who offers to help Michael make shoes for a fee. He also asks Michael to find him a place to stay, leading to a temporary living arrangement.
* The Gift: After a few days, the stranger disappears, leaving behind a small bag of gold. He tells Michael that he should give it away, as it's a gift from God.
* Michael's Decision: Michael initially keeps the gold, tempted by the prospect of improving their financial situation. However, the stranger's words and the good he witnesses in the village weigh heavily on his conscience. He feels compelled to return the gold and share it with those in need.
* The Transformation: The act of giving away the gold has a profound effect on Michael. He becomes more selfless and finds meaning in helping others. He realizes that true wealth lies in kindness, compassion, and living a good life.
* The Stranger's Identity: Michael and Natalia believe the stranger to be an angel, or a messenger from God, as he leaves them with a message about the meaning of life.
Beyond the Literal:
While this summarizes the events, "What Men Live By" is a story about faith, compassion, and the importance of living a moral life. The stranger's presence, the gift, and the transformation of Michael all have symbolic meanings that go beyond the literal.
To understand the story fully, it's crucial to explore the themes and symbolism in relation to the characters and their actions. If you're interested in learning more about the story's deeper meaning, I'd be happy to discuss it further.