William Somerset Maugham's 'Collected Plays' offers readers a glimpse into the compelling world of British theater of the early 20th century. Known for his sharp wit and astute character portrayals, Maugham's plays reflect the social and cultural norms of his time, from romantic comedies to thought-provoking dramas. His literary style is a blend of realism and wit, making his works not only entertaining but also thought-provoking. Each play in this collection showcases Maugham's skill in capturing the complexities of human relationships and societal issues of his era. As a seminal figure in British literature, Maugham's plays continue to resonate with audiences today. Based on the author's own experiences and observations of the human condition, 'Collected Plays' is a must-read for anyone interested in classic theater and the works of a literary master. Maugham's ability to bring characters to life on stage and explore universal themes makes this collection a timeless addition to any library.

Compiled in one book, the essential collection of books by W. Somerset Maugham The Explorer The Hero The Land of Promise The Land of The Blessed Virgin; Sketches and Impressions in Andalusia Liza of Lambeth The Magician Moon and Sixpence Of Human Bondage Orientations The Trembling of a Leaf

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.

During World War I W. Somerset Maugham, already by then an established playwright and author, was recruited to be a British intelligence agent. These stories reflect his wartime experiences in intelligence gathering. Though fictionalized, they managed to retain enough authentic elements for Winston Churchill to advise Maugham that their publication might be a violation of the Official Secrets Act, resulting in the author burning an additional 14 stories. Set in various locales across the continent, these remaining Ashenden stories are a precursor to the jet-setting spy novels of the 1950s and 1960s. Maugham is known as a master short story writer and these stories are no exception, combining wit and realism to create memorable characters in a unique and highly critical portrait of wartime espionage. Initially released to a mixed reception—with an early review by D. H. Lawrence being especially scathing—Ashenden has since been credited as an inspiration for numerous authors, including John Le Carré, Graham Greene, and Raymond Chandler. The latter in particular was especially impressed, writing in 1950, “There are no other great spy stories—none at all. I have been searching and I know.” This book is part of the Standard Ebooks project, which produces free public domain ebooks.