New Releases by W. Somerset Maugham

This classic novel about the truth behind an author's literary legacy is "a brilliant, sophisticated, amusing satire" ( Chicago Tribune ). To London's intellectual elite, Edward Driffield was the "Last of the Victorians," a novelist whose works defined an era and shaped English literature. This is how his widow Amy Driffield wishes for her husband to be remembered—and how she asks author Alroy Kear to pen Edward's biography and preserve his legend. With only a little knowledge of Driffield's early career, Kear turns to yet another author, William Ashenden, for insight into the great writer's life. Ashenden was just a teenager when he met Driffield in Kent County's seaside town of Blackstable, spending time with the burgeoning novelist and his first wife Rose, a vivacious barmaid with a wicked reputation. A few years later in London when he was a medical student, Ashenden encountered the Driffields again, getting swept up into their bohemian lifestyle. While Edward's literary star rises, Rose follows her own muses, enjoying the company of the city's artists—and engaging in an affair with Ashenden. The affair and the marriage both end when Rose vanishes without warning, running away with another man. While both Driffield's widow and Kear are determined to minimize Rose's role in the author's life and career, Ashenden remembers Rose as an inspiring force of nature to everyone she encountered, especially the genius of Edward Driffield. "An extraordinary work" — The New Yorker "Perfectly priceless writing." — Chicago Tribune

In "Up at the Villa," W. Somerset Maugham crafts a poignant tale set against the backdrop of 1920s Italy, exploring themes of love, betrayal, and the complexities of human morality. The novel's narrative unfolds through the experiences of the protagonist, Mary Panton, a widow whose life takes an unexpected turn when she becomes entangled with a dissolute young man. Maugham's prose is elegant and incisive, blending psychological insight with keen observations of social norms, thus reflecting the moral ambiguities of a post-war society. The rich, atmospheric descriptions of the Tuscan landscape resonate with a sense of both beauty and decay, emblematic of the characters' inner turmoil. W. Somerset Maugham, a prolific British writer known for his sharp wit and penetrating psychological insights, draws from his own experiences living abroad and observing human relationships. Having traveled extensively, Maugham imbued "Up at the Villa" with a deep understanding of expatriate life, social class distinctions, and the subtle intricacies of interpersonal dynamics. His rich background in theatre and storytelling allows him to create compelling, complex characters that confront their moral dilemmas in relatable ways. This novel is highly recommended for readers who appreciate nuanced character studies and vivid settings that challenge conventional notions of morality. Maugham's exploration of desire and consequence invites readers to reflect on their own ethical boundaries, making "Up at the Villa" a timeless meditation on the human condition. In this enriched edition, we have carefully created added value for your reading experience: - A succinct Introduction situates the work's timeless appeal and themes. - The Synopsis outlines the central plot, highlighting key developments without spoiling critical twists. - A detailed Historical Context immerses you in the era's events and influences that shaped the writing. - An Author Biography reveals milestones in the author's life, illuminating the personal insights behind the text. - A thorough Analysis dissects symbols, motifs, and character arcs to unearth underlying meanings. - Reflection questions prompt you to engage personally with the work's messages, connecting them to modern life. - Hand‐picked Memorable Quotes shine a spotlight on moments of literary brilliance. - Interactive footnotes clarify unusual references, historical allusions, and archaic phrases for an effortless, more informed read.

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. In this enriched edition, we have carefully created added value for your reading experience: - A succinct Introduction situates the work's timeless appeal and themes. - The Synopsis outlines the central plot, highlighting key developments without spoiling critical twists. - A detailed Historical Context immerses you in the era's events and influences that shaped the writing. - An Author Biography reveals milestones in the author's life, illuminating the personal insights behind the text. - A thorough Analysis dissects symbols, motifs, and character arcs to unearth underlying meanings. - Reflection questions prompt you to engage personally with the work's messages, connecting them to modern life. - Hand‐picked Memorable Quotes shine a spotlight on moments of literary brilliance. - Interactive footnotes clarify unusual references, historical allusions, and archaic phrases for an effortless, more informed read.

In "The Summing Up," W. Somerset Maugham presents a profound introspection that intertwines autobiographical elements with philosophical musings on art, life, and the human condition. Employing a candid and conversational literary style, Maugham reflects on his experiences and the lessons gleaned from a lifetime of observation across various cultural landscapes. The book exists in a unique literary context, bridging modernism and traditional narrative forms, allowing readers to engage with the intricacies of a writer's mind while contemplating existential questions that transcend time and place. W. Somerset Maugham, a prolific writer of the early 20th century, has often been regarded as one of the most significant literary figures of his time. His experiences as a medical student, a traveler, and a witness to both the glamorous and the grim aspects of life profoundly influenced his writing. "The Summing Up" showcases Maugham's desire to distill his observations into universal truths, reflecting his belief in the power of storytelling as a means of understanding one's self and the world. I recommend "The Summing Up" to readers who seek a thoughtful exploration of the complexities of life and creativity. Maugham's penetrating insights and candid revelations resonate with anyone who yearns for deeper understanding, making this work an essential read for lovers of literature and philosophy alike.

What happens when a marriage built on shallow attraction crumbles under the weight of infidelity and exile? The Painted Veil follows Kitty Fane, a frivolous young woman whose affair leads to devastating consequences when her bacteriologist husband discovers her betrayal. Set against the backdrop of 1920s colonial Hong Kong during a deadly cholera epidemic, Maugham masterfully explores themes of moral awakening, spiritual transformation, and the complex nature of love and forgiveness. Walter Fane's calculated revenge forces Kitty into the dangerous Chinese interior, where she must confront her superficial values. Through Kitty's journey from vanity to self-awareness, the novel examines the painted illusions we create about ourselves and others. The epidemic-ravaged Chinese village becomes a crucible for personal growth, where both characters face their deepest truths about duty, sacrifice, and redemption. This timeless exploration of human nature and moral complexity resonates with readers seeking profound literary fiction that examines the transformation possible through adversity and the ultimate power of genuine understanding.

Of Human Bondage (1915) is a novel by W. Somerset Maugham. Inspired by his experiences as an orphan and young student, Maugham composed his masterpiece. Adapted several times for film, Of Human Bondage is a story of tragedy, perseverance, and the eternal search for happiness which drives us as much as it haunts our every move. Orphaned as a boy, Philip Carey is raised in an affectionless household by his aunt and uncle. Although his Aunt Louisa tries to make him feel welcome, William proves an uncaring, vindictive man. Left to fend for himself most days, Philip finds solace in the family’s substantial collection of books, which serve as an escape for the imaginative boy. Sent to study at a prestigious boarding school, Philip struggles to fit in with his peers, who abuse him for his intelligence and club foot. Despite his struggles, he perseveres in his studies and chooses his own path in life, moving to Heidelberg, Germany and denying his uncle’s wish that he attend Oxford. As he struggles to become a professional artist, Philip learns that one’s dreams are often unsubstantiated in the world of the living. Of Human Bondage is a tale of desire, disappointment, and romance by a master stylist with a keen sense of the complications inherent to human nature. With a beautifully designed cover and professionally typeset manuscript, this edition of W. Somerset Maugham’s Of Human Bondage is a classic work of British literature reimagined for modern readers.

Mrs. Craddock (1902) is a novel by W. Somerset Maugham. Controversial for its portrayal of infidelity and marriage across social classes, Mrs. Craddock was instrumental in establishing Maugham’s reputation as a leading author of the late Victorian era. Due to its content, the novel appeared exclusively in Bowdlerized form until Maugham saw it republished in 1938. Bertha Ley has always been independent. Orphaned at a young age, she comes into a sizable inheritance at 21 and declares her wish to marry Edward Craddock, a 27-year-old from a working-class background. Despite his initial hesitance, she encourages him to propose and assures him that they can raise a family together. As she signs over control of her fortune to Craddock, ostensibly to give him the confidence he desperately needs, Bertha slowly realizes that she is unattracted to almost everything about him. His morals, interests, and attitudes are all shaped by a way of life she will never understand, and he appears solely dedicated to raising his animals. When their first child is stillborn, things begin to change for the young husband and wife—Bertha retreats while Edward leans into his commitment to work, even taking an interest in local politics. Although Bertha begins to accept her unhappiness, something inside her remains undeterred, longing to be released. With a beautifully designed cover and professionally typeset manuscript, this edition of W. Somerset Maugham’s Mrs. Craddock is a classic work of British literature reimagined for modern readers.

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.

This is the Classic Book of all time

The Moon and the SixpenceBy W. Somerset Maugham

One of the novels that galvanized W. Somerset Maugham’s reputation as a literary master The Moon and Sixpence follows the life of one Charles Strickland, a bourgeois city gent whose dull exterior conceals the soul of a genius. Compulsive and impassioned, he abandons his home, wife, and children to devote himself slavishly to painting. In a tiny studio in Paris, he fills canvas after canvas, refusing to sell or even exhibit his work. Beset by poverty, sickness, and his own intransigent, unscrupulous nature, he drifts to Tahiti, where, even after being blinded by leprosy, he produces some of his most extraordinary works of art. Inspired by the life of Paul Gauguin, The Moon and Sixpence is an unforgettable study of a man possessed by the need to create—regardless of the cost to himself and to others. For more than seventy years, Penguin has been the leading publisher of classic literature in the English-speaking world. With more than 1,700 titles, Penguin Classics represents a global bookshelf of the best works throughout history and across genres and disciplines. Readers trust the series to provide authoritative texts enhanced by introductions and notes by distinguished scholars and contemporary authors, as well as up-to-date translations by award-winning translators.