The film story. Based on stories V.Shukshina "Stepan", "Ignat has arrived", "Snake venom." He lives in the Siberian village of old Yermolai Voevodin. Four sons, his daughter, yes. But how different their lives were formed. Moved to Moscow Senior - Ignat, was to join the circus, showing remarkable strength. He is satisfied with their lives and their stories to the city entices brother Maximus. He gets a construction laborer, but always feels lonely.