What are Somerset Maugham's 10 best novels?

One of his best is 'Up at the Villa'. It's set in Florence and involves a complex web of relationships and moral dilemmas. The story is engaging, and Maugham's writing style really brings the characters and the setting to life.

Some of the best Somerset Maugham novels include 'Of Human Bondage'. It's a semi - autobiographical work that delves deep into the life of the protagonist, Philip Carey. His struggles with love, ambition, and self - discovery are vividly portrayed. Another great one is 'The Moon and Sixpence', which is inspired by the life of Paul Gauguin. It tells the story of an artist who abandons his comfortable life to pursue his passion for painting in a rather unconventional way.

Some of his best novels include 'Of Human Bondage'. It's a semi - autobiographical work that delves deep into the life of the protagonist, Philip Carey. It explores themes like love, ambition, and the search for meaning in life.

Some of Somerset Maugham's well - known novels include 'Of Human Bondage', 'The Moon and Sixpence', and 'The Razor's Edge'. However, it's a bit subjective to name exactly ten best ones as different people may have different favorites depending on their interests and reading experiences.

Many consider 'Of Human Bondage' to be Somerset Maugham's best novel. It's a profound exploration of human nature and relationships.

Well, 'Of Human Bondage' is often considered one of his top works. It's a semi - autobiographical novel that delves deep into the life of the protagonist, his struggles, love affairs, and his search for meaning in life. 'The Moon and Sixpence' is another great one. It tells the story of an artist who abandons his family and comfortable life to pursue his passion for art in a rather unconventional way. 'The Razor's Edge' also stands out, exploring themes of self - discovery and the spiritual journey of the main character. There are other notable works like 'Cakes and Ale' and 'Up at the Villa' that could also be contenders for the ten best, depending on how one evaluates them.

'Cakes and Ale' is considered a great work. It's a clever satire. Maugham uses humor to take jabs at the literary establishment. He creates characters that are both comical and yet representative of real - life types. The way he weaves the story, with its twists and turns regarding the reputations of the characters, keeps the reader engaged and makes it a memorable read.

It's difficult to precisely name the top 10 Somerset Maugham novels as different people may have different favorites. But surely 'Of Human Bondage' is a classic that cannot be missed. It's a semi - autobiographical novel that delves deep into the protagonist's experiences with love, social class, and personal growth. 'The Moon and Sixpence' offers a unique perspective on the sacrifices an artist makes for his art. 'The Razor's Edge' is a profound exploration of spiritual awakening. Other possible contenders for the top 10 could be his works that showcase his sharp wit and incisive observations about human nature and society.

The influence of Somerset Maugham's spy novels is far - reaching. In terms of literary techniques, his use of suspense and his ability to build tension in the story have been emulated by many. Moreover, his exploration of the psychological aspects of spying has led to a deeper understanding of the genre. His novels have broadened the scope of what can be explored in spy stories, from the political implications to the personal relationships of the spies.

Also, 'Up at the Villa' is considered one of his best works.