"Lefty" is a short story by Russian writer Nikolai Leskov. The story is also called by its full title, "The Tale of Cross-eyed Lefty from Tula and the Steel Flea." Leskov's story is usually told orally, known in Russian tradition as a skaz. The story centers on the titular character, Lefty, who is craftsman from the town of Tula, where the arms manufacturing industry in Russia is based.

The story is both nationalistic and critical of the Russian government (pre-Soviet Union). The emperor when the story takes place is Alexander I. The story begins with boasts about the brilliant craftsmanship of Russians, and how they are superior to those of Western nations. This boast is even emphasized by the talent of Lefty, who was able to recreate a tiny mechanism using basic tools and materials. Lefty's accomplishment receives acclaim from the English.

In the second part of the story, the message goes from patriotism and pride over Russian talent to criticism about how the Russian government doesn't support that very talent. The English invite Lefty to explore and study in Great Britain so that he may further enhance his skills and knowledge base. However, in the end, Lefty becomes homesick and returns to Russia.

While en route back to Russia, Lefty engages in a drinking competition with an English sailor—another instance of the story's overall theme of Russia versus the West—and winds up being thrown in jail for being intoxicated. Lefty suffers a fatal injury in the hands of the authorities and dies. His death shows the contradictory way his own proud, nationalistic government treated their own citizens.

Before he dies, Lefty tells an official to relay a message to the Emperor about oiling their guns before entering the Crimean War. He learned this technique in England and not in Russia, showing that learning from other nations and cultures was more beneficial than always competing against them. From a modern perspective, this message appears to be pro-globalization and anti-isolationist. However, the messenger never tells the emperor, and the Russians lose the war.