Of Human Bondage
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Since its publication, Of Human Bondage has been celebrated as Maugham's most autobiographical and enduring work. Its psychological depth and unflinching portrayal of vulnerability, obsession, and resilience have made it a cornerstone of modern literature. By chronicling Philip's gradual movement from dependence to self-awareness, the novel explores themes of freedom, fate, and the inevitable compromises demanded by life.
The novel's enduring relevance lies in its ability to capture the universal struggle between desire and restraint, illusion and truth, suffering and growth. Through its richly drawn characters and exploration of the human condition, Of Human Bondage continues to resonate with readers as a timeless meditation on identity, purpose, and the resilience of the human spirit.
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William Somerset Maugham was a British playwright, novelist, and short-story writer, widely recognized as one of the most popular and commercially successful authors of the first half of the 20th century. Born in Paris to British parents, Maugham became known for his keen observations of human behavior, his elegant yet straightforward prose, and his explorations of themes such as desire, disillusionment, and the complexities of human relationships. His works often blend psychological insight with a cosmopolitan sensibility, making him a distinctive voice in modern literature.
Maugham's literary career took off with the publication of Liza of Lambeth (1897), a novel inspired by his experiences as a medical student. However, his true breakthrough came with Of Human Bondage (1915), a semi-autobiographical novel considered his masterpiece. The book tells the story of Philip Carey, a sensitive and physically disabled man whose struggles with love, art, and purpose reflect Maugham's own inner conflicts.
Maugham's prose style was admired for its clarity, precision, and lack of ornamentation, qualities that allowed his insights into human nature to resonate with a wide readership. Though critics sometimes dismissed him as a "storyteller" rather than a literary innovator, his popularity and lasting influence are undeniable. His themes of human frailty, irony, and the pursuit of meaning in a disenchanted world place him alongside major writers of his time.
His works influenced generations of writers, and many of his stories were adapted into films, extending his reach into popular culture. He is often remembered as a cosmopolitan observer of the human condition, whose skepticism and wit gave his narratives a unique tone.
