Best Selling Books by Somerset Maugham

The Moon and Sixpence is a novel by W Somerset Maugham, told in episodic form by a first-person narrator, in a series of glimpses into the mind and soul of the central character Charles Strickland, a middle-aged English stockbroker, who abandons his wife and children abruptly to pursue his desire to become an artist. It is based on the life of the painter Paul Gauguin. William Somerset Maugham (1874–1965) was a British playwright, novelist and short story writer. He was among the most popular writers of his era and reputedly the highest paid author during the 1930s.

A nine year old boy''s mother dies shortly after the death of his father. He is sent to live with his aunt and uncle in a small East-Anglian village, where his uncle is vicar. This uncle holds the boy''s significant inheritance for him until he comes of age, giving him unlimited power over the boy. The novel is considered a masterpiece, and is also highly autobiographical, though Maugham claimed: "This is a novel, not an autobiography, though much in it is autobiographical, more is pure invention."

Kitty Fane''s affair with Assistant Colonial Secretary Townsend is interrupted when she is taken from Hong Kong by her vengeful bacteriologist husband to work in a cholera epidemic.

Step into the world of classic literature with "Liza of Lambeth" by William Somerset Maugham. Set in the 1890s, this novel offers a vivid portrayal of culture and society, capturing the essence of the era. Maugham''s intricate narrative and deep understanding of human nature make this a must-read for fans of classic literature and those interested in the cultural landscape of the late 19th century.

The Moon and Sixpence is a novel by W. Somerset Maugham first published in April 15th, 1919. It is told in episodic form by a first-person narrator, in a series of glimpses into the mind and soul of the central character Charles Strickland, a middle-aged English stockbroker, who abandons his wife and children abruptly to pursue his desire to become an artist. The story is in part based on the life of the painter Paul Gauguin.

The Moon and Sixpence is a novel by W. Somerset Maugham first published in April 15th, 1919. It is told in episodic form by a first-person narrator, in a series of glimpses into the mind and soul of the central character Charles Strickland, a middle-aged English stockbroker, who abandons his wife and children abruptly to pursue his desire to become an artist. The story is in part based on the life of the painter Paul Gauguin.

The Moon and Sixpence is a novel by W. Somerset Maugham first published in April 15th, 1919. It is told in episodic form by a first-person narrator, in a series of glimpses into the mind and soul of the central character Charles Strickland, a middle-aged English stockbroker, who abandons his wife and children abruptly to pursue his desire to become an artist. The story is in part based on the life of the painter Paul Gauguin.

The Moon and Sixpence is a novel by W. Somerset Maugham first published in April 15th, 1919. It is told in episodic form by a first-person narrator, in a series of glimpses into the mind and soul of the central character Charles Strickland, a middle-aged English stockbroker, who abandons his wife and children abruptly to pursue his desire to become an artist. The story is in part based on the life of the painter Paul Gauguin. The book was made into a stage play in 1925 at the New Theatre with Henry Ainley as Strickland and Eileen Sharp as Ata and a film of the same name directed and written by Albert Lewin. Released in 1942, the film stars George Sanders as Charles Strickland.

In "Landed Gentry," W. Somerset Maugham deftly navigates the intricacies of British society, weaving a narrative that captures the psychological depth of its characters against the backdrop of the rural elite. Through sharp dialogue and vivid descriptions, Maugham explores themes of ambition, social pretensions, and the moral ambiguity inherent within the gentry. This novel reflects the tension between traditional values and changing social dynamics of early 20th-century England, revealing the complex interplay of class and human desire. W. Somerset Maugham, an acclaimed English playwright, novelist, and short story writer, drew much from his own experiences as a member of the literary elite. His upbringing, coupled with his keen observations of human nature, enabled him to portray the foibles of the landed gentry with both empathy and critique. Maugham''s travels and diverse encounters further enriched his understanding of the nuances of society, which are vividly illustrated in this work, showcasing his distinctive narrative voice and insights into human behavior. "Landed Gentry" is a compelling read for anyone interested in early 20th-century literature, social commentary, and the human condition. Maugham''s sharp wit and profound understanding of his characters make this novel not only entertaining but also an essential exploration of class dynamics and personal aspirations in a transforming society.

Full text. Based on the life of Paul Gauguin, The Moon and Sixpence is W. Somerset Maugham''s ode to the powerful forces behind creative genius.Charles Strickland is a staid banker, a man of wealth and privilege. He is also a man possessed of an unquenchable desire to create art. As Strickland pursues his artistic vision, he leaves London for Paris and Tahiti, and in his quest makes sacrifices that leaves the lives of those closest to him in tatters. Through Maugham''s sympathetic eye Strickland''s tortured and cruel soul becomes a symbol of the blessing and the curse of transcendent artistic genius, and the cost in humans lives it sometimes demands.

An uncompromising and self-destructive deserts his wife, family, business, and civilization for his art. Shedding harsh light on an artist''s ego, Maugham reveals the lengths to which one man will go to focus on his art. Written in 1919, this unforgettable story is timeless in its appeal.