I remember reading several Maugham novels when I was in high school. That was not the appropriate time and age for a Maugham encounter. Perhaps I need to revisit his novels and stories. You can look far and wide but not find Maugham on college literature course reading lists. Tastes may change (especially under the pressure of the canon revisionists), but good writing like Maugham's should not be lost in history.
Human Bondage is a fine novel, but I am mostly a huge fan of Maugham's short stories.
They are smart, amusing, and insightful. With exotic locals based on Maugham's travels, the characters are interesting, realistic and very human.
My favorite story is "Mr. Know-All. "
I reread some of the short stories every couple of years.
I also enjoyed the British TV programs that dramatized his short stories.
Go to www.youtube.com and type Somerset Maugham in the search box and you will find several TV shows and films, including the full film of "The Razor's Edge" with Tyrone Power.
Maugham himself introduces his short stories in many of the TV programs and films. Good stuff.
I remember reading several Maugham novels when I was in high school. That was not the appropriate time and age for a Maugham encounter. Perhaps I need to revisit his novels and stories. You can look far and wide but not find Maugham on college literature course reading lists. Tastes may change (especially under the pressure of the canon revisionists), but good writing like Maugham's should not be lost in history.
ReplyDeleteFrank,
ReplyDeleteHuman Bondage is a fine novel, but I am mostly a huge fan of Maugham's short stories.
They are smart, amusing, and insightful. With exotic locals based on Maugham's travels, the characters are interesting, realistic and very human.
My favorite story is "Mr. Know-All. "
I reread some of the short stories every couple of years.
I also enjoyed the British TV programs that dramatized his short stories.
Go to www.youtube.com and type Somerset Maugham in the search box and you will find several TV shows and films, including the full film of "The Razor's Edge" with Tyrone Power.
Maugham himself introduces his short stories in many of the TV programs and films. Good stuff.
Paul
Frank,
ReplyDeleteBelow are links to the TV drama of "Mr. Know-All":
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qRavMtdMHMo
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n9vz0uc3SJU
Paul