Of Human BondageIn his seminal work "Of Human Bondage," William Somerset Maugham explores the complexities of human existence through the life of Philip Carey, an orphan grappling with his identity and aspirations in early 20th-century England. Maugham employs a semi-autobiographical narrative style enriched with psychological insight and vivid characterizations, juxtaposing Philip's struggles against the constraints of society, love, and artistic ambition. The novel's rich tapestry incorporates themes of desire, suffering, and the relentless quest for freedom, resonating with the philosophical ideas of existentialism and realism prevalent during Maugham's time, illuminating the human condition in striking clarity. William Somerset Maugham, born in 1874, led a fascinating life that informed his literary endeavors. His upbringing, marked by the death of his parents and subsequent education at medical school before turning to writing, imparted profound insights into the fragility of human relationships and the dichotomy of professional ambition versus personal fulfillment. Maugham's extensive travels and experiences as a playwright and novelist further enriched the authenticity and depth with which he crafted Philip's journey in "Of Human Bondage." This novel is an unparalleled exploration of self-realization and emotional complexity. Readers will find Maugham's dissection of the human psyche profound and relatable, making it a quintessential read for anyone interested in the dynamics of love, art, and the pursuit of personal freedom. Highly recommended for both casual readers and literary scholars alike, "Of Human Bondage" remains a timeless exploration of the bonds that tether us and the courage required to break them. |
Contents
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Common terms and phrases
amused answered asked Philip Athelny Aunt Louisa awfully beautiful began better Blackstable Boy's Own Paper Cacilie Carey church Church of England club-foot Clutton Contents Philip Cronshaw d'you dinner door dress Dunsford El Greco Erlin eyes face feeling Frau Professor Fraulein friends gave girl Griffiths hair hand happy Hayward headmaster heard heart Heidelberg King's School kissed knew laughed Lawson lived London Mary Ann matter Mildred mind Miss Wilkinson morning music-hall never night Norah once Paris passed passion Perkins Philip felt Philip looked Philip saw Philip thought realised remembered Rose round Sally seemed shillings silent sitting smile soul spoke stood street suddenly Table of Contents talk tell Tercanbury things told Tom Perkins took turned uncle Upjohn Vicar vicarage voice waiting walked week woman wondered words young