Of Human Bondage

William Somerset Maugham

Jan 1915 · Cosimo Classics

About this eBook

"...all they have been told are lies, lies, lies; and each discovery is another nail driven into the body on the cross of life."

-W. Somerset Maugham, Of Human Bondage (1915)

Of Human Bondage (1915) by W. Somerset Maugham is considered a semi-autobiographical work and has been critically acclaimed as one of the best English novels of the twentieth century. The plot follows the life of Philip Carey who, like Maugham, is orphaned at a young age and sent to live with a cold, unfeeling uncle. Carey travels life's path in search of success and happiness, and the author captures the essence of this journey perfectly. This novel is for those who enjoy the plight of the common man and classic literature that stands the test of time.

Ratings and reviews

This is one of the most amazing books I have ever read!! I really related to the main character in a lot of ways. Especially when leaves the religion he was raised to know. I hated though that he allowed that girl to used him so much. If you haven't read it yet you really should. He is such a diverse character that everyone will relate to him at some point.

Just like the STONES said," You can't always get what you WANT,but if you TRY sometimes, you just might find,you get what you NEED." If your blessed they turn out to be one and the same, others live their entire lives unable to distinguish between the two, and then some didn't TRY,,,,, at least not enough.

Favorite book of all time. Maugham's style and genious is unparallel.

About the author

W. SOMERSET MAUGHAM (1874-1965) was born in Paris to British parents and orphaned at the age of ten. The difficulties he faced as a child are the foundation of his masterpiece novel, Of Human Bondage (1915). Considered one of the most popular authors of his time, Maugham is noted for his keen understanding of human nature.