W. Somerset Maugham Quotes
W. Somerset Maugham was a British playwright, novelist, and short story writer, known for his realistic and satirical portrayals of human nature. He was born in 1874 and spent much of his childhood in France, which greatly influenced his writing. Maugham’s most famous works include “Of H…Read More
W. Somerset Maugham was a British playwright, novelist, and short story writer, known for his realistic and satirical portrayals of human nature. He was born in 1874 and spent much of his childhood in France, which greatly influenced his writing. Maugham’s most famous works include “Of Human Bondage,” “The Moon and Sixpence,” and “The Razor’s Edge.” He was also a successful playwright, with his play “The Constant Wife” being one of his most popular works. Maugham’s writing often explored themes of love, betrayal, and the complexities of human relationships. He was a master of character development and his works continue to be widely read and adapted for film and television. Maugham’s legacy as one of the greatest writers of the 20th century lives on through his timeless and thought-provoking works.Read Less
W. Somerset Maugham was a British playwright, novelist, and short story writer, known for his realistic and satirical portrayals of human nature. He was born in 1874 and spent much of his childhood in France, which greatly influenced his writing. Maugham’s most famous works include “Of Human Bondage,” “The Moon and Sixpence,” and “The Razor’s Edge.” He was also a successful playwright, with his play “The Constant Wife” being one of his most popular works. Maugham’s writing often explored themes of love, betrayal, and the complexities of human relationships. He was a master of character development and his works continue to be widely read and adapted for film and television. Maugham’s legacy as one of the greatest writers of the 20th century lives on through his timeless and thought-provoking works.
163 Top W. Somerset Maugham Quotes
W. Somerset Maugham Career Highlights
W. Somerset Maugham was a British playwright, novelist, and short story writer, widely considered one of the greatest English-language writers of the 20th century. He was born on January 25, 1874, in Paris, France, to British parents. Maugham’s father was a lawyer who died when he was eight years old, leaving him in the care of his emotionally distant mother. He was educated at King’s School in Canterbury and studied medicine at St. Thomas’ Hospital in London, but ultimately abandoned his medical career to pursue writing.Maugham’s first novel, “Liza of Lambeth,” was published in 1897 and was a critical and commercial success. This launched his career as a writer, and he went on to publish over 30 novels, including “Of Human Bondage” (1915) and “The Razor’s Edge” (1944), which are considered his most famous works. He also wrote numerous plays, including “The Circle” (1921) and “The Constant Wife” (1927), which were both successful on Broadway.
Key Contributions by W. Somerset Maugham
Maugham’s writing style was characterized by his keen observation of human behavior and his ability to create complex and realistic characters. He often drew inspiration from his own experiences and travels, which gave his works a sense of authenticity. His writing also explored themes of love, relationships, and the human condition, making him a relatable and popular author.In addition to his literary contributions, Maugham was also a spy for the British Secret Intelligence Service during World War I. He used his travels as a cover for his espionage activities, and his experiences during this time influenced his writing, particularly in his novel “Ashenden: Or the British Agent” (1928).
What Sets W. Somerset Maugham Apart
Maugham’s writing was praised for its clarity, wit, and ability to capture the complexities of human nature. He was also known for his versatility, as he wrote in various genres including drama, comedy, and satire. His works were widely translated and adapted into films, plays, and television series, cementing his legacy as a literary icon.Maugham’s personal life also set him apart from other writers of his time. He was openly gay and had numerous affairs with both men and women, which was considered scandalous at the time. He also had a lifelong struggle with stuttering, which he overcame through his writing.
Takeaways
W. Somerset Maugham’s career highlights, key contributions, and unique qualities make him a significant figure in English literature. His works continue to be studied and appreciated by readers and scholars alike, and his legacy as a master storyteller lives on. Maugham’s ability to capture the complexities of human nature and his personal struggles make him a relatable and enduring figure in the literary world.
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Playwright and novelist
· USA
1929
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1913
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Playwright and novelist
· France
1885
