The Summing Up

The Summing Up

W. Somerset Maugham, 1938

“The Summing Up” by W. Somerset Maugham is a collection of the author’s reflections on life, literature, and his own experiences. Published in 1938, the book takes readers on a journey through Maugham’s thoughts on success, happiness, and the art of writing. With honesty and wit, he shares anecdotes from his life, critiques his own works, and offers valuable insights into the challenges faced by writers. Through candid observations, Maugham explores societal norms and human behavior, making the book a timeless source of wisdom for both aspiring writers and those seeking a deeper understanding of life’s complexities.

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Book Info

Title: “The Summing Up”
Author: W. Somerset Maugham
Year Published: First published in 1938.
Genre: The book falls into the category of non-fiction, specifically reflective essays.
Content Overview: Maugham shares autobiographical reflections, providing insights into his life, thoughts on success, happiness, and the meaning of life. The book also includes literary critiques where Maugham discusses the challenges and rewards of being a writer.
Style: Known for its honesty and wit, the book is written in Maugham’s distinctive narrative style, offering candid observations on society and human behavior.
Legacy: “The Summing Up” remains a valuable resource for writers and readers interested in gaining perspective on the author’s life, his views on literature, and the art of storytelling.
Key Themes: Themes include self-reflection, the writer’s craft, and philosophical musings on various aspects of life.

Trivia

  • Unique Title Inspiration: The title “The Summing Up” was inspired by the idea of Maugham reflecting on his life and experiences, providing readers with a summary or ‘summing up’ of his thoughts.
  • Writing Rituals: W. Somerset Maugham wrote many parts of the book in his favorite writing spot—Villa Mauresque on the French Riviera.
  • Ageless Advice: Despite being published in 1938, the insights on writing and life in “The Summing Up” remain relevant and continue to inspire writers and readers today.
  • Influence on Authors: Many famous authors, including George Orwell, found Maugham’s reflections in “The Summing Up” to be insightful and encouraging in their own writing endeavors.
  • Literary Honesty: Maugham’s candid and honest approach in the book is reflected in his admission of not enjoying some of his own popular works, revealing a rare and frank attitude for an author of his stature.

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