William Somerset Maugham
Biography
William Somerset Maugham (1874–1965) was an English playwright, novelist, and short story writer. Born in Paris to English parents, he was orphaned at a young age and raised by a strict uncle in England. He studied medicine in London, qualifying as a physician, but quickly abandoned this career path after the success of his first novel, 'Liza of Lambeth' (1897). Maugham served in the British Secret Intelligence Service during World War I, experiences that later influenced some of his espionage-themed works. His prolific career spanned over six decades, producing a vast body of work including acclaimed novels like 'Of Human Bondage' and 'The Moon and Sixpence', numerous plays, and hundreds of short stories. Known for his clear, unadorned prose and keen observation of human nature, he traveled extensively, often drawing inspiration from his global experiences.
Selected Thoughts
«The great tragedy of life is not that men perish, but that they cease to love.»
«The common idea that success spoils people by making them vain, egotistic and self-complacent is erroneous; on the contrary, it makes them, for the most part, humble, tolerant and kind. Failure makes people cruel and bitter.»
«I have an idea that the only way to find out what you are is to lose yourself in some relation to other people.»
Writing Style
Maugham's writing style is characterized by its clarity, lucidity, and economy of language. He employed a straightforward, unadorned prose, focusing on storytelling rather than stylistic flourishes. His narratives often feature a detached, sometimes cynical, omniscient narrator, offering sharp psychological insights into his characters. He was a master of dialogue, creating realistic and engaging conversations. His short stories, in particular, are noted for their compact structure, often featuring surprise endings, and a subtle, ironic wit. He preferred realism and a dispassionate observation of human foibles and societal conventions.