Of Human Bondage

A Masterpiece of Modern Literature—The Search for Meaning in a World Without Rules

With its deeply personal narrative and stark realism, Of Human Bondage stands as one of the most influential novels of the twentieth century. A semi-autobiographical work from the renowned storyteller W. Somerset Maugham, it follows the tumultuous life of Philip Carey, an orphan born with a clubfoot.

Struggling to find his place in a world that seems intent on reminding him of his limitations, Philip embarks on a restless journey. From the rigid confines of an English vicarage to the bohemian art studios of Paris and the demanding wards of a London hospital, he searches for passion, purpose, and a philosophy to live by. But his quest is relentlessly complicated by his obsessive, destructive love for Mildred Rogers, a cold and unremarkable waitress who exploits his devotion with devastating cruelty.

More than a story of unrequited love, this is a profound exploration of the human condition. Maugham lays bare the struggles of art, the constraints of social convention, and the very nature of freedom as Philip grapples with the "bondage" of his own desires, his physicality, and the unpredictable tides of fate.

A VINTAGE CLASSIC • This timeless novel continues to resonate with its unflinching portrayal of one man’s quest for meaning, making it an essential and unforgettable read.

Perfect for fans of:
Classic literary fiction, coming-of-age stories, the works of Charles Dickens and Thomas Hardy, and profound character studies.