The Summing Up

W. Somerset Maugham was an eminent British playwright, novelist, and short story writer, whose work has garnered critical acclaim for its narrative dexterity and psychological depth. Born William Somerset Maugham on January 25, 1874, in Paris, he was to become one of the most popular writers of his era, adept at capturing the nuances of human character and the complications of societal norms. His upbringing, marked by the loss of both parents by age 10, influenced the themes of loss and alienation in his later works. Maugham initially studied medicine, an experience that informed his first novel 'Liza of Lambeth' (1897), demonstrating an early knack for keen social observation. His reputation is perhaps most firmly anchored in his masterpieces such as 'Of Human Bondage' (1915) and 'The Razor's Edge' (1944), where his explorations of the complexities of love and the search for meaning resonate with readers. In 'The Summing Up' (1938), Maugham reflects on his life and art with characteristic insight and unassuming grace, offering a window into the creative process of a writer who was as critical of his own work as he was celebrated by the public. With over 30 plays and numerous short stories to his credit, Maugham's influence extends through the 20th century and continues to captivate readers and scholars alike. His literary style, marked by a clear, unadorned narrative voice and a sharp wit, has made his works enduring classics of English literature.