Best Selling Books by W. Somerset Maugham

Moon and Sixpence by W. Somerset (William Somerset) Maugham Excerpt Chapter I I confess that when first I made acquaintance with Charles Strickland I never for a moment discerned that there was in him anything out of the ordinary. Yet now few will be found to deny his greatness. I do not speak of that greatness which is achieved by the fortunate politician or the successful soldier; that is a quality which belongs to the place he occupies rather than to the man; and a change of circumstances reduces it to very discreet proportions. We are delighted to publish this classic book as part of our extensive Classic Library collection. Many of the books in our collection have been out of print for decades, and therefore have not been accessible to the general public. The aim of our publishing program is to facilitate rapid access to this vast reservoir of literature, and our view is that this is a significant literary work, which deserves to be brought back into print after many decades. The contents of the vast majority of titles in the Classic Library have been scanned from the original works. To ensure a high quality product, each title has been meticulously hand curated by our staff. Our philosophy has been guided by a desire to provide the reader with a book that is as close as possible to ownership of the original work. We hope that you will enjoy this wonderful classic work, and that for you it becomes an enriching experience.

In ''The Razor''s Edge,'' W. Somerset Maugham intricately weaves a narrative that explores the existential quest for meaning and fulfillment against the backdrop of post-World War I society. Utilizing a distinctive storytelling style that blends rich character development with philosophical introspection, Maugham delves into the lives of several individuals, particularly Larry Darrell, a disillusioned veteran searching for enlightenment beyond material success. The literary context of the novel situates it within the modernist movement, reflecting the disjointed realities of a world grappling with the aftermath of war and the turbulent shift in societal values. W. Somerset Maugham, a renowned British playwright, novelist, and short story writer, drew upon his extensive travels and experiences in diverse cultures to craft this masterpiece. His observations of human nature, along with his own struggles with identity and purpose, significantly informed the narrative. Maugham''s keen insights into the human condition and his background in both the arts and medicine provide a profound foundation for the philosophical inquiries presented within the novel. For readers seeking a deep exploration of personal and spiritual journeys, ''The Razor''s Edge'' is an essential read. Maugham''s eloquent prose, combined with his incisive critique of contemporary society, invites readers to reflect on their own lives, urging them to ponder the delicate balance between ambition and authenticity.

The Moon and Sixpence By W. 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. The story is said to be loosely based on the life of the painter Paul Gauguin. The novel is written largely from the point of view of the narrator, who is first introduced to Strickland through the latter''s wife. Strickland strikes him (the narrator) as unremarkable. Certain chapters entirely comprise stories or narrations of others, which the narrator recalls from memory (selectively editing or elaborating on certain aspects of dialogue, particularly Strickland''s, as Strickland is said by the narrator to be limited in his use of verbiage and tended to use gestures in his expression).

Filled with keen observations, autobiographical notes, and the seeds of many of Maugham''s greatest works, A Writer''s Notebook is a unique and exhilarating look into a great writer''s mind at work. From nearly five decades, Somerset Maugham recorded an intimate journal. In it we see the budding of his incomparable vision and his remarkable career as a writer. Covering the years from his time as a youthful medical student in London to a seasoned world traveler around the world, it is playful, sharp witted, and always revealing. Undoubtedly one of his most significant works, A Writer''s Notebook is a must for Maugham fans and anyone interested in the creative process.

"Liza of Lambeth" is the first novel by W. Somerset Maugham, depicting the life and manners of the Victorian-era working class. The story''s protagonist is Liza Kemp, an 18-year-old factory worker who lives with her aging mother. Liza likes Tom, a boy her age, but soon she realizes she perceives him as a friend. Instead, she falls in love with a married man, and this connection threatens her social image and her way of life.

A novel of love and betrayal set during a cholera epidemic from the acclaimed British author of Of Human Bondage, “a great artist, a genius” (Theodore Dreiser). “[Theodore Dreiser] is the modern writer who has influenced me the most.” —George Orwell Arriving in Hong Kong in the 1920s, newlywed Kitty Fane soon learns that being the wife of a British government bacteriologist gives her no particular social status. It only adds to her dissatisfaction with her life and her husband, Walter. Her marriage has been nothing but a mistake. But she soon embarks on an affair that transforms her very being. There is passion. There is hope. There is a future full of possibility. When Walter must go deep into mainland China to help treat the victims of a cholera epidemic, Kitty refuses to accompany him. To force her hand, Walter threatens to expose her affair. But Kitty, sure in her lover’s whispered promises, pushes for a divorce. Her impulsive decision will throw a stark light on the truth and her own desperate illusions, thrusting Kitty into unfamiliar territory—both in the world around her and the soul within . . . The inspiration for the film starring Naomi Watts and Edward Norton, “The Painted Veil with its sadness, its moral tension, its irony and compassion, its building evocations of lust and terror and remorse is a work of art” (The Spectator). “Reveals many of Maugham’s strengths: an understanding of women, meticulous craftsmanship and raw emotion.” —Daily Mail “This short masterpiece tells of love, treachery, and a search for real substance in life.” —DigBooks

The Moon and the SixpenceBy W. Somerset Maugham

In "The Land of The Blessed Virgin; Sketches and Impressions in Andalusia," W. Somerset Maugham crafts a vivid tapestry of the Andalusian landscape, culture, and its people. Using a blend of personal narrative, keen observation, and rich descriptive prose, Maugham immerses readers in the sights, sounds, and flavors of southern Spain. The book is characterized by its impressionistic style, capturing fleeting moments and evoking emotional responses rather than strictly adhering to chronological events. Maugham''s work can be understood as part of the broader tradition of travel literature that seeks to explore and interpret foreign cultures through a personal lens, combining travelogue with artistic reflection. As a renowned British playwright and novelist, Maugham was influenced by his extensive travels, which enriched his understanding of diverse human experiences. His earlier career as a medical student and subsequent experiences in the British Empire allowed him to observe human nature with great acuity, shaping his narrative voice. His time in Spain, coupled with his fascination for its landscapes and customs, provided fertile ground for these observations, enhancing his journey within the text. This book is highly recommended for readers interested in travel literature, cultural explorations, and Maugham''s distinct narrative style. It invites you to savor the nuances of Andalusian life while reflecting on the broader interplay between the traveler and the destination, making it an enriching read for anyone seeking to experience Spain from a unique perspective.

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.

DigiCat Publishing presents to you this special edition of "Theatre" by W. Somerset Maugham. DigiCat Publishing considers every written word to be a legacy of humankind. Every DigiCat book has been carefully reproduced for republishing in a new modern format. The books are available in print, as well as ebooks. DigiCat hopes you will treat this work with the acknowledgment and passion it deserves as a classic of world literature.