Meaning: The quote "What kind of crops do they raise in the towns? Only Grand Dukes, Bolsheviks and drunkards!" is a poignant statement made by Ernest Poole, an American novelist and journalist. Poole was known for his social realist fiction, which often depicted the struggles and injustices faced by ordinary people in the rapidly changing urban landscape of the early 20th century. This particular quote captures the essence of Poole's critical view of the societal class divisions and the impact of industrialization on urban communities.

In this quote, Poole employs a metaphorical comparison between the cultivation of crops and the social composition of towns. By using the imagery of raising crops, he draws attention to the idea of societal "harvest" and the types of individuals who are prevalent in urban environments. The inclusion of "Grand Dukes, Bolsheviks, and drunkards" in this analogy reflects the stark contrast between the privileged elite, the revolutionary forces, and the dispossessed or marginalized members of society.

It is important to note that this quote was made during a time of significant social and political upheaval, particularly in the aftermath of the Russian Revolution and the rise of Bolshevik ideology. The reference to "Grand Dukes" alludes to the aristocratic class, which held immense power and privilege in pre-revolutionary Russia. The mention of "Bolsheviks" signifies the emergence of the revolutionary movement that sought to overthrow the existing social order and establish a communist society. Lastly, the inclusion of "drunkards" speaks to the prevalence of alcoholism and the plight of the working class, who often sought solace in alcohol amid their struggles.

Through this quote, Poole delivers a scathing commentary on the stratification of urban society, highlighting the coexistence of extreme wealth and privilege alongside pervasive poverty and social unrest. The juxtaposition of the aristocratic elite, the revolutionary forces, and the downtrodden reflects the tumultuous and divisive nature of the times in which Poole wrote.

This statement also sheds light on Poole's perspective as a social realist writer who sought to illuminate the harsh realities of urban life. His works often delved into the lives of ordinary individuals, portraying their struggles, aspirations, and disillusionment in the face of industrialization, urbanization, and class disparities. Through his writing, Poole aimed to bring attention to the human cost of rapid societal change and to advocate for greater empathy and social reform.

In conclusion, Ernest Poole's quote "What kind of crops do they raise in the towns? Only Grand Dukes, Bolsheviks and drunkards!" encapsulates his incisive critique of the social fabric of urban communities during a time of profound social and political upheaval. Through this metaphorical analogy, Poole draws attention to the stark divisions and disparities within society, shedding light on the struggles and aspirations of ordinary individuals amidst the turbulent forces of change. His words serve as a powerful reminder of the enduring relevance of social realism in portraying the human experience within the context of broader historical and societal transformations.