Of Human Bondage
'Of Human Bondage' follows the tumultuous life of Philip Carey, an orphaned boy with a clubfoot, who struggles against societal expectations and his own passions. As he navigates love, art, and the quest for meaning, Philip finds himself entangled in obsessive relationships, particularly with the enigmatic Mildred. Maugham intricately explores themes of desire, individuality, and the shackles of emotional dependency. His journey is marked by poignant self-discovery and the harsh realities of human existence. Will Philip ever find true freedom, or is he destined to remain bound by his own human struggles?
By W. Somerset Maugham
Published: 1991
""The unfortunate, sensible man, who is convinced that his life is not worth living, knows that fortune will make him live. His very misery is a form of duty.""
Start Listening
What Readers Say About This Book
A masterpiece of modern literature that mirrors Maugham’s own career. Of Human Bondage is the first and most autobiographical of Maugham's novels. It is the story of Philip Carey, an orphan eager for life, love and adventure. After a few months studying in Heidelberg, and a brief spell in Paris as a would-be artist, Philip settles in London to train as a doctor. And that is where he meets Mildred, the loud but irresistible waitress with whom he plunges into a formative, tortured and masochistic affair which very nearly ruins him.
The Mike & Casey Show
Dive into captivating book discussions with our expert hosts
Key Points from Of Human Bondage
About the Author
W. Somerset Maugham
W. Somerset Maugham (1874-1965) was a British playwright, novelist, and short story writer, celebrated for his keen observations of human nature and social critique. Among his most notable works are 'Of Human Bondage', 'The Moon and Sixpence', and 'The Razor's Edge', which showcase his ability to explore complex characters in rich, evocative settings. Maugham's writing style is characterized by clarity, simplicity, and a masterful use of dialogue, often employing a sense of irony and an acute understanding of the human condition.
Book Details
Key information about the book.
- Authors
- W. Somerset Maugham
- Published
- June 1991
- Publisher
- Bantam Classics
- ISBN
- 055321392X
- Language
- English
- Pages
- 736
- Genres
- Modern LiteratureLiteratureLiterary Fiction
Purchase Options
Buy on Amazon
Buy via BookShopSupport local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
Similar books you might like →
Anna Karenina
Leo Tolstoy
Mistakes Were Made (but Not by Me)
Elliot Aronson, Carol Tavris
A Path with Heart
Jack Kornfield
A Dance to the Music of Time
Anthony Powell
Thinking in Bets
Annie Duke
Quench Your Own Thirst
Jim Koch
We Have Always Lived in the Castle
Shirley Jackson
Snow Crash
Neal Stephenson
Goodnight Moon Board Book 60th Anniversary Edition
Margaret Wise Brown
If on a Winter's Night a Traveller
Italo Calvino
Moneyball: The Art of Winning an Unfair Game
Michael Lewis
A Room of One's Own
Virginia Woolf
Chronicle of a Death Foretold
The Sound and the Fury
William Faulkner
Great Expectations
Charles Dickens
The Heart is a Lonely Hunter
Carson McCullers
A Lesson Before Dying
Ernest J. Gaines
The World as It Is
Ben Rhodes
Camino Island
John Grisham
Sheltering Sky
Paul Bowles
Cultural Amnesia
Clive James
Nothing to Lose
Lee Child
Three Book Sebald Set
W. G. Sebald
The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success
Deepak Chopra
Under the Volcano
Malcolm Lowry
Rice, Noodle, Fish
Matt Goulding
Your Marketing Sucks
Mark Stevens
Dead Girls
Alice Bolin
Bright Lights, Big City
Jay McInerney
Raymond Feist
Raymond E. Feist
Take your reading experience to the next level
Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.
Book Collections you might like →
Alain de Botton's Book Recommendations
Alain de Botton is a Swiss-British philosopher, author, and founder of The School of Life, an organization dedicated to teaching emotional intelligence and life skills. De Botton’s books, such as The Consolations of Philosophy and How Proust Can Change Your Life, blend philosophy with everyday life, offering practical wisdom on love, work, and happiness. His work has popularized philosophy, making it accessible to a wider audience. De Botton is also a public speaker and essayist, frequently exploring topics related to human fulfillment and personal growth. His unique approach to philosophy has made him a respected voice in contemporary culture.
View Collection
Abi Tyas Tunggal's Book Recommendations
Abi Tyas Tunggal is a distinguished author known for his impactful contributions to contemporary literature and digital content. He has garnered acclaim for his insightful storytelling and adept handling of complex themes, resonating with a diverse readership. Tunggal's work often explores the intersections of technology, society, and human experience, making him a prominent voice in modern narrative arts. Beyond his literary achievements, he is also recognized for his innovative use of digital platforms to engage with and expand his audience. Tunggal continues to influence the literary landscape with his thought-provoking and accessible writing.
View Collection
Alicia Keys's Book Recommendations
Alicia Keys, an acclaimed American singer-songwriter and classically trained pianist, has made significant contributions to the music industry with her soulful voice and compelling lyrics. She burst onto the scene with her debut album, "Songs in A Minor," which earned her five Grammy Awards. In addition to her musical achievements, Keys is also a celebrated author; her memoir "More Myself: A Journey" provides an intimate look at her life and career. She has used her platform to advocate for social justice, co-founding the Keep a Child Alive organization to combat HIV/AIDS in Africa. Alicia Keys continues to inspire through her artistry and activism, leaving a lasting impact on both music and literature.
View Collection
Caterina Fake's Book Recommendations
Caterina Fake is an American entrepreneur and investor, best known for co-founding Flickr, one of the first photo-sharing platforms that helped define social media and web 2.0. After the success of Flickr, Fake went on to co-found Hunch, a recommendation engine that was later acquired by eBay. She is a partner at Yes VC, a venture capital firm that invests in early-stage startups, with a focus on companies that foster human connection and creativity. Fake is also an advocate for ethical technology and often speaks about the importance of designing products that prioritize user well-being. Her contributions to tech and her insights on the intersection of technology and culture have made her a respected leader in the industry.
View Collection
Alexey Moiseenkov's Book Recommendations
Alexey Moiseenkov is a Russian entrepreneur and tech innovator best known for creating Prisma, the groundbreaking mobile app that transforms photos into artworks using artificial intelligence. Though not primarily a literary figure, his work in AI and digital transformation has influenced contemporary discussions on the intersection of technology and art. Moiseenkov's contributions have been featured in various tech and innovation journals, highlighting his impact on modern digital culture. His work underscores the evolving narrative of creativity in the digital age, bridging the gap between artistic expression and technological advancement. Moiseenkov continues to inspire through his ongoing ventures in AI and entrepreneurship.
View Collection
John Green's Book Recommendations
John Green is an American author, YouTuber, and educator, best known for his best-selling novels The Fault in Our Stars and Looking for Alaska. Green's writing often explores themes of love, loss, and the complexity of adolescence, resonating with both young adults and adults alike. He is also the co-creator of the YouTube channels Vlogbrothers and CrashCourse, where he educates viewers on history, literature, and science in an engaging, accessible way. Green is known for his deep empathy and ability to connect with readers through emotionally powerful storytelling. His work in literature and online education has made him a beloved figure in both media and education circles.
View Collection
Barack Obama's Book Recommendations
Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.
View Collection
Gwyneth Paltrow's Book Recommendations
Gwyneth Paltrow is an acclaimed actress and entrepreneur, best known for her roles in films such as "Shakespeare in Love," for which she won an Academy Award for Best Actress. Beyond her acting career, she is a celebrated author and wellness guru, founding the lifestyle brand Goop in 2008. Paltrow has authored several best-selling cookbooks, including "My Father's Daughter" and "It's All Good," which emphasize healthy living and nutritious recipes. Her work in literature has significantly contributed to the wellness and lifestyle genres, inspiring many to pursue healthier lifestyles. Paltrow continues to influence the wellness industry through her writing and entrepreneurial endeavors.
View Collection
Anya Taylor-Joy's Book Recommendations
Anya Taylor-Joy is an acclaimed actress known for her captivating performances in film and television. She gained widespread recognition for her role as Beth Harmon in the critically acclaimed Netflix series "The Queen's Gambit," which earned her a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress. Taylor-Joy has also starred in notable films such as "The Witch," "Split," and "Emma," showcasing her versatility and depth as an actress. In addition to her acting career, she has been praised for her contributions to promoting diverse and complex female characters in modern storytelling. Her work continues to inspire audiences and set a high standard in the entertainment industry.
View Collection
Darren Aronofsky's Book Recommendations
Darren Aronofsky is an American filmmaker, known for his psychologically intense and visually stunning films, including Requiem for a Dream, Black Swan, and The Wrestler. Aronofsky’s work often explores themes of obsession, identity, and self-destruction, and his unique directorial style has earned him critical acclaim and numerous awards. His ability to blend dark, complex narratives with striking visuals has made him one of the most distinctive voices in contemporary cinema. Aronofsky is also an advocate for environmental sustainability and has used his platform to raise awareness about climate change. His films continue to push boundaries and provoke thought on a range of human experiences.
View Collection
Natalie Portman's Book Recommendations
Natalie Portman is an Academy Award-winning actress, director, and activist known for her diverse roles in films such as Black Swan, V for Vendetta, and Jackie. Beyond her successful acting career, Portman is a passionate advocate for women’s rights, animal rights, and environmental causes. She has a degree from Harvard University, where she studied psychology, and is known for her intellect as well as her artistic talent. Natalie has also directed and produced films and is a vocal supporter of the Time’s Up and #MeToo movements, advocating for gender equality in the entertainment industry.
View Collection
Elon Musk's Book Recommendations
Elon Musk is an influential entrepreneur and innovator known for founding and leading several groundbreaking companies, including Tesla, SpaceX, Neuralink, and The Boring Company. He has played a pivotal role in advancing electric vehicles, space exploration, and renewable energy. Musk's vision extends to colonizing Mars and reducing the risk of human extinction through space travel. In addition to his technological contributions, he has co-authored the book "Spacex: Making Commercial Spaceflight a Reality," providing insights into his ambitious projects and vision for the future. Musk's relentless pursuit of innovation continues to shape the trajectory of multiple industries.
View Collection
Bill Gates's Book Recommendations
Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft Corporation, is a pioneering figure in the tech industry, having played a key role in the personal computer revolution. His work at Microsoft, particularly the development of Windows, transformed software and computing globally. Beyond his technology contributions, Gates is also a prolific author, with notable works such as "The Road Ahead" and "Business @ the Speed of Thought," which offer insights into the future of technology and business. Additionally, his philanthropic efforts through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation have had a profound impact on global health, education, and poverty. Gates continues to influence both technology and literature with his forward-thinking perspectives and innovative ideas.
View Collection
Derek Sivers's Book Recommendations
Derek Sivers is an entrepreneur, author, and founder of CD Baby, one of the first online platforms that allowed independent musicians to sell their music directly to fans. Sivers is known for his unconventional approach to business and life, advocating for simplicity, focus, and self-reliance. After selling CD Baby, Sivers has become a sought-after speaker and writer, sharing insights on entrepreneurship, creativity, and personal development. His books, including Anything You Want, provide practical advice for living a meaningful, purpose-driven life. Sivers’ minimalist and thoughtful approach has made him a respected figure in the entrepreneurial community.
View Collection
Frank Blake's Book Recommendations
Frank Blake is an American businessman and former CEO of The Home Depot, where he led the company through a period of significant growth and transformation. Under Blake’s leadership, The Home Depot focused on improving customer service and expanding its digital presence, making it a leader in home improvement retail. Blake is known for his humble and people-focused leadership style, often attributing the company’s success to its employees. Since retiring from The Home Depot, he has remained active in business and philanthropy, serving on various boards and supporting charitable causes. Blake’s leadership legacy continues to influence corporate culture.
View Collection
Colin Firth's Book Recommendations
Colin Firth is a British actor known for his roles in films such as The King’s Speech, Pride and Prejudice, and A Single Man. Firth’s portrayal of King George VI in The King’s Speech earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor. He is widely respected for his ability to bring depth and nuance to a wide range of characters, from romantic leads to complex historical figures. Firth is also a passionate advocate for human rights and environmental causes, using his platform to support charitable organizations. His combination of talent and activism has made him one of the most admired actors in the film industry.
View Collection
Frank Chimero's Book Recommendations
Frank Chimero is a renowned designer, illustrator, and author best known for his influential book "The Shape of Design," which explores the philosophy and practice of design. His work emphasizes the intersection of creativity and human experience, earning him a respected place in both the design and literary communities. Chimero has contributed essays and lectures that have inspired a new generation of thinkers in the creative industries. He has also been recognized for his ability to distill complex ideas into accessible, thought-provoking content. Beyond his writing, Chimero's design projects and illustrations have been featured in numerous prestigious publications and exhibitions.
View Collection“"The unfortunate, sensible man, who is convinced that his life is not worth living, knows that fortune will make him live. His very misery is a form of duty."”
Of Human Bondage
By W. Somerset Maugham
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore Our Catalogue
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.