Somerset Maugham
William Somerset Maugham was born on January 25, 1874, in Paris, France, and became one of the 20th century's most prolific and popular writers. Known for his keen insight into human nature and dexterous storytelling, Maugham's literary career spanned over six decades.
He was orphaned at the age of 10 and sent to England to live with his uncle. Maugham initially studied medicine at St. Thomas's Hospital in London, an experience that deeply influenced his writing. His first novel, "Liza of Lambeth" (1897), drew on his medical experiences in the slums of South London and marked the beginning of his career as a writer.
His semi-autobiographical novel "Of Human Bondage" (1915) is regarded as his masterpiece and a classic of English literature. Maugham also achieved acclaim with his plays and short stories, particularly for his sharp characterizations and ironic twists.
During World War I, he served with British Intelligence, experiences that inform his spy novel "Ashenden" (1928), pioneering the modern espionage genre. Maugham's later years were spent in the French Riviera, where he continued to write until his death on December 16, 1965. Despite critics often dismissing his work as mere entertainment, his vast influence on literature remains undeniable.