W. Somerset Maugham

About the Author

W. Somerset Maugham (1874–1965) was a prolific British novelist, short story writer, and playwright, respected for his sharp, observant writing style. Born as Paris, he was orphaned as a child, and studied to be a doctor in London before finding success as author. Maugham wrote what many consider his masterpiece, Of Human Bondage, in 1915. His other popular works include The Razor’s Edge, The Moon and Sixpence, The Painted Veil, and Cakes and Ale.