Life & Works Of W. Somerset Maugham

Life & Works Of W. Somerset Maugham (1874–1965)

W. Somerset Maugham (1874–1965) was a British playwright, novelist, and short-story writer known for his keen observations of human nature and his skillful storytelling. His works often explore themes such as the complexities of human relationships, the clash between tradition and modernity, and the pursuit of happiness and fulfillment. Here are some key points about Somerset Maugham:

1. Early Life and Education: Somerset Maugham was born on January 25, 1874, in Paris, France, to British parents. He was orphaned at a young age and raised by his uncle in England. He studied medicine at St. Thomas’ Hospital Medical School in London but eventually abandoned his medical career to pursue writing.
2. Literary Career: Maugham achieved literary success with his early novels and short stories, which often drew upon his experiences as a young man traveling and living in exotic locales such as Southeast Asia and the South Pacific. Some of his notable works include “Of Human Bondage” (1915), “The Moon and Sixpence” (1919), “Cakes and Ale” (1930), and “The Razor’s Edge” (1944).
3. Writing Style: Maugham’s writing style is characterized by its clarity, simplicity, and psychological insight. He excelled at creating vivid characters and exploring the complexities of human behavior and emotion. His works often feature introspective protagonists grappling with existential questions and moral dilemmas.
4. Themes and Motifs: Many of Maugham’s works explore themes such as the quest for self-discovery, the clash between convention and individual freedom, and the tension between appearance and reality. He often depicted the struggles of individuals seeking to find meaning and purpose in their lives.
5. Success and Influence: Maugham was one of the most popular and commercially successful writers of his time, with many of his works adapted into films, plays, and television series. His writing influenced generations of writers, and he remains celebrated for his insightful portrayals of human nature and his mastery of storytelling technique.
6. Later Life: In addition to his literary pursuits, Maugham was also a prolific traveler and socialite. He lived in various countries, including France and the United States, and maintained a wide circle of friends and acquaintances. He died on December 16, 1965, in Nice, France, at the age of 91.

Overall, Somerset Maugham’s works continue to be cherished for their timeless themes, engaging narratives, and profound insights into the human condition. He remains a towering figure in 20th-century literature, revered for his contributions to the art of storytelling.

His Works

W. Somerset Maugham was a prolific writer, known for his novels, short stories, plays, and essays. Here are some of his notable works:

1. Of Human Bondage (1915): Considered one of Maugham’s masterpieces, this semi-autobiographical novel follows the life of Philip Carey, a young orphan with a clubfoot, as he struggles to find his identity and purpose in early 20th-century England.
2. The Moon and Sixpence (1919): Inspired by the life of the French Post-Impressionist painter Paul Gauguin, this novel tells the story of Charles Strickland, a middle-aged stockbroker who abandons his family and bourgeois life to pursue his passion for art in Paris and Tahiti.
3. Cakes and Ale (1930): A satirical novel that takes a witty look at the world of literature and the English literary establishment. The story revolves around the life of writer William Ashenden and his reflections on the life and legacy of the deceased author Edward Driffield.
4. The Razor’s Edge (1944): This novel follows the spiritual journey of Larry Darrell, a young American pilot traumatized by his experiences in World War I. Seeking meaning and enlightenment, Larry travels the world and encounters various characters as he searches for ultimate truth and fulfillment.
5. Ashenden: Or the British Agent (1928): A collection of interconnected short stories inspired by Maugham’s experiences as a British secret agent during World War I. The stories follow the adventures of Ashenden, a fictional spy, as he navigates the world of espionage and intrigue.
6. Theatre (1937): A novel set in the world of the London theater scene, Theatre explores the lives and relationships of the actors, playwrights, and producers involved in putting on a West End play.
7. The Painted Veil (1925): Set against the backdrop of British colonial Hong Kong, this novel tells the story of Kitty Fane, a young woman who marries the bacteriologist Walter Fane out of convenience but finds herself drawn to another man. The novel explores themes of love, betrayal, and redemption.
8. Up at the Villa (1941): A novella set in Florence, Italy, in the years leading up to World War II. The story follows Mary Panton, a young widow, as she becomes entangled in a web of love, deceit, and intrigue involving a British diplomat, an Austrian refugee, and a murder plot.
9. Short Stories: Maugham wrote numerous short stories, many of which were collected in volumes such as “The Trembling of a Leaf” (1921), “Collected Short Stories” (1952), and “The Complete Short Stories of W. Somerset Maugham” (1951). These stories showcase his talent for character development, irony, and wit.
10. Plays: Maugham wrote over 30 plays, including “The Circle” (1921), “Our Betters” (1917), “The Constant Wife” (1926), and “The Letter” (1927). His plays often explore themes of marriage, infidelity, and social conventions, and many were successful both on stage and screen.

These are just a few highlights of Somerset Maugham’s extensive body of work, which continues to be celebrated for its insight, wit, and enduring appeal.

His Place In History

W. Somerset Maugham holds a significant place in literary history as one of the most popular and influential writers of the 20th century. Here are some key aspects of his legacy and his place in history:

1. Prolific and Versatile Writer: Maugham was a remarkably prolific writer who produced a vast body of work encompassing novels, short stories, plays, essays, and travel writings. His ability to write across multiple genres and mediums contributed to his widespread popularity and enduring legacy.
2. International Acclaim: Maugham’s works were widely translated and enjoyed international acclaim during his lifetime. His keen observations of human nature, compelling storytelling, and universal themes resonated with readers around the world, earning him a global audience and cementing his reputation as a literary giant.
3. Literary Style and Influence: Maugham’s writing style, characterized by its clarity, simplicity, and psychological insight, has left an indelible mark on English literature. His works often explore themes such as the complexities of human relationships, the pursuit of happiness, and the clash between tradition and modernity. Many writers and critics have praised his craftsmanship and storytelling prowess.
4. Cultural Impact: Maugham’s literary works have had a lasting impact on popular culture, inspiring numerous adaptations for stage, film, and television. His novels and short stories continue to be studied in schools and universities, and his influence can be seen in the works of subsequent generations of writers.
5. Reflection of Society: Maugham’s works provide valuable insights into the social, cultural, and political dynamics of the early 20th century. Through his characters and narratives, he explored issues such as class divisions, colonialism, gender roles, and the human condition, offering readers a nuanced portrayal of society during his time.
6. Controversy and Criticism: While Maugham enjoyed widespread popularity during his lifetime, he also faced criticism from some quarters for his portrayal of characters and themes. Critics have debated his treatment of race, gender, and colonialism, and his works continue to be analyzed and interpreted through various lenses.
7. Literary Awards and Honors: Maugham’s contributions to literature were recognized with numerous awards and honors, including the James Tait Black Memorial Prize for fiction. He was also elected to the Order of Merit, one of the highest honors bestowed upon individuals for their achievements in the arts and sciences.

Overall, W. Somerset Maugham’s enduring legacy as a writer lies in his ability to capture the complexities of the human experience with insight, empathy, and eloquence. His works continue to be cherished by readers of all ages and backgrounds, ensuring his place as a literary icon for generations to come.

HIS CONTEMPORARIES

W. Somerset Maugham had several notable contemporaries in the literary world during the early to mid-20th century. These writers, each with their own distinct styles and contributions to literature, often intersected with Maugham’s career and shared the literary landscape of their time. Some of Maugham’s contemporaries include:

1. Joseph Conrad (1857–1924): A Polish-British novelist known for his gripping tales of adventure and exploration, Conrad’s works often explored themes of morality, redemption, and the human condition. His novels, such as “Heart of Darkness” and “Lord Jim,” are regarded as classics of English literature.
2. E.M. Forster (1879–1970): An English novelist and essayist, Forster was known for his insightful explorations of class, sexuality, and interpersonal relationships. His works, including “A Passage to India” and “Howards End,” are celebrated for their nuanced characterizations and social commentary.
3. Virginia Woolf (1882–1941): A pioneering figure in modernist literature, Woolf was known for her experimental narrative techniques and exploration of themes such as consciousness, identity, and the passage of time. Her novels, including “Mrs. Dalloway” and “To the Lighthouse,” are considered seminal works of 20th-century literature.
4. James Joyce (1882–1941): An Irish novelist and poet, Joyce is best known for his groundbreaking work “Ulysses,” a modernist masterpiece that chronicles a single day in the life of its protagonist, Leopold Bloom, in Dublin. Joyce’s experimental narrative style and complex themes of identity and language have had a profound influence on modern literature.
5. F. Scott Fitzgerald (1896–1940): An American novelist renowned for his vivid depictions of the Jazz Age and the Roaring Twenties, Fitzgerald captured the spirit of his era with works such as “The Great Gatsby” and “Tender Is the Night.” His exploration of themes like wealth, aspiration, and the American Dream continues to resonate with readers today.
6. Ernest Hemingway (1899–1961): An American novelist and short-story writer known for his spare prose style and his portrayal of stoic, masculine protagonists, Hemingway was a key figure in 20th-century literature. His works, including “The Old Man and the Sea” and “A Farewell to Arms,” often explored themes of courage, honor, and the human condition.
7. D.H. Lawrence (1885–1930): An English novelist, poet, and essayist, Lawrence is best known for his provocative and controversial works that challenged social norms and conventions. His novels, such as “Lady Chatterley’s Lover” and “Sons and Lovers,” delved into themes of sexuality, psychology, and the natural world.
8. T.S. Eliot (1888–1965): An American-British poet, essayist, and playwright, Eliot was a central figure in the modernist movement and one of the most influential poets of the 20th century. His works, including “The Waste Land” and “Four Quartets,” are celebrated for their complexity, allusiveness, and profound insights into the human condition.

These are just a few of the many writers who were contemporaries of W. Somerset Maugham and who made significant contributions to literature during the early to mid-20th century. Each of these writers left an indelible mark on the literary landscape of their time and continues to be celebrated for their enduring works and lasting influence.