“Philip looked at his own work. How could you tell whether there was anything in it or whether you were wasting your time? It was clear that the will to achieve could not help you and confidence in yourself meantnothing.”

English novelist and playwright of the early-to-mid 20th century, Maugham was celebrated for his sharp, witty observations on human nature and society. His works—including *Of Human Bondage* and *The Razor’s Edge*—blend psychological insight with accessible storytelling, revealing both the complexities and contradictions of human behavior.