Orientations

Name: Orientations
Author: W. Somerset Maugham

By W. Somerset Maugham

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Short Stories

About This Book

A collection of short narratives that probe the quirks of social conduct and private conscience, varying in tone from ironic comedy to sober reflection. Each story presents characters confronted with moral choices or social pressures, and traces how pride, hypocrisy, devotion, or desire shape their decisions and aftermaths. Settings and registers shift to test character and reveal contradictions between appearance and motive, while the prose emphasizes precise observation, concise plotting, and ironic distance, leaving many outcomes morally ambiguous.

About the Author

W. Somerset Maugham

W. Somerset Maugham was a British playwright, novelist, and short story writer, known for his keen observations of human nature and society. His works often explore themes of love, betrayal, and the complexities of life. Maugham's notable novel, "Of Human Bondage," is a semi-autobiographical account that delves into the struggles of a young man's search for identity and purpose. He was also a prolific playwright, with works such as "East of Suez" and "Cæsar's Wife" showcasing his talent for dialogue and character development. Maugham's literary contributions have left a lasting impact on 20th-century literature.