This is the first of three volumes of my collected short stories. In my early youth I wrote a number, but they are so immature that I have preferred not to reprint them. A few are in a book that has long remained out of print, a few others are scattered in various magazines. They are best forgotten. The first of the stories in this collection, Rain, was written in 1920 in Hong Kong, but I had hit upon the idea for it during a journey I took in the South Seas during the winter of 1916. The last of my stories was written in New York in 1945 from a brief note that I found by chance among my papers and which I made as far back as 1901. I do not expect ever to write another.

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

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.

Looking for a play that combines romance, intrigue, and profound insight into the human condition? Fans of top-notch dramatic writing will appreciate W. Somerset Maugham's Caesar's Wife, which explores an unusual love triangle between a distinguished, older dignitary, his personal secretary, and his much-younger wife.