William Somerset Maugham, born on January 25, 1874, in Paris, was an English playwright, novelist, and short story writer, renowned for his clear, unadorned prose and expert storytelling. His work is characterized by a cynical but also compassionate perception of human weaknesses, often reflecting themes of love, war, and social mores. Maugham trained in medicine before shifting to writing, an experience that informed his famed novel 'Of Human Bondage' (1915). This semi-autobiographical work is considered his masterpiece, laying bare the struggles of the artist and the nuances of desire and artistic pursuit. Maugham's prolific output includes 'The Moon and Sixpence' (1919), inspired by the life of Paul Gauguin, and 'The Razor's Edge' (1944), which explores the quest for spiritual meaning. 'The Essential Somerset Maugham: 33 Books in One Edition' collects the significant spectrum of his literary contributions, showcasing his versatility and influence in 20th-century literature. Maugham's international acclaim and travels, particularly to the East, inspired many of his evocative short stories, with collections like 'The Casuarina Tree' and 'Ashenden: Or the British Agent' providing a testament to his gift for nuanced, globally-conscious narratives. He died in Nice, France, on December 16, 1965, leaving behind a legacy of work that continues to be celebrated and absorbed by readers and scholars alike.