Of Human Bondage by W Somerset Maugham

Of Human Bondage, published in 1915, is considered one of W. Somerset Maugham's most significant works. This semi-autobiographical novel was written over a period of about five years and initially serialized before being released as a single volume by George H. Doran Company in the United States and William Heinemann in the United Kingdom. Its publication marked a turning point in Maugham's career, establishing him as a major literary figure. Despite facing initial mixed reviews, the novel's profound exploration of the human condition soon gained recognition. Maugham drew heavily on his own life experiences, particularly his struggles with a physical disability and his time studying medicine, to create a vivid and compelling narrative.

The book's protagonist, Philip Carey, embodies many of Maugham's personal struggles, and the author's unflinching portrayal of these experiences contributed to the novel's enduring impact. The release of Of Human Bondage during the turbulent years of World War I also provided a poignant reflection on personal suffering and resilience, resonating with a wide audience. Over the years, the novel's reputation has grown, cementing its status as a classic of English literature.

Plot

Of Human Bondage follows the life of Philip Carey, an orphan born with a clubfoot, which becomes a source of deep personal anguish. Raised by a stern and emotionally distant uncle after the death of his mother, Philip grows up feeling isolated and unloved. His journey towards self-understanding and fulfilment is fraught with hardship and disappointment.

As a young man, Philip initially pursues a career in the church, following his uncle’s wishes. However, he soon finds himself disillusioned by religion and instead decides to study art in Paris. In Paris, Philip meets a variety of bohemian artists, experiencing both the freedom and the harsh realities of artistic life. His time there is marked by a struggle between his aspirations and his limited talent, leading him to abandon art and return to London.

Back in London, Philip enrolls in medical school, hoping to find a more practical and secure path. It is during this period that he meets Mildred Rogers, a coarse and unrefined waitress. Philip becomes infatuated with her, despite her indifferent and often cruel treatment. Their tumultuous relationship becomes a central focus of the novel, as Mildred repeatedly exploits Philip’s affection, leading him into financial ruin and emotional despair.

Parallel to his entanglement with Mildred, Philip forms meaningful relationships with more nurturing figures, such as Sally Athelny, the daughter of a family friend. Despite these positive influences, his obsession with Mildred continues to dominate his life, symbolizing his broader struggles with insecurity and a desire for acceptance.

The turning point comes when Philip finally recognises the futility of his pursuit of Mildred and begins to focus on his medical career. He starts to find satisfaction and purpose in his work, and his life begins to stabilise. The novel concludes with Philip discovering a sense of peace and contentment, having reconciled with his past and found a path that brings him fulfillment.

Into the Book

One of the central themes in Of Human Bondage is the search for identity and self-acceptance. Philip Carey’s physical deformity, his clubfoot, symbolizes his internal struggles with self-worth and acceptance. Throughout the novel, Philip grapples with feelings of inferiority and a longing for normalcy. His journey is marked by various attempts to find his place in the world—through religion, art, and medicine. Philip’s experiences reflect Maugham’s exploration of the human condition, particularly the need for self-acceptance.

As Philip matures, he learns to embrace his flaws and recognise his intrinsic value beyond societal expectations. This theme is poignantly expressed in the novel: “It is an illusion that youth is happy, an illusion of those who have lost it; but the young know they are wretched, for they are full of the truthless ideals which have been instilled into them, and each time they come in contact with the real, they are bruised and wounded.”

“He did not care if she was heartless, vicious and vulgar, stupid and grasping, he loved her. He would rather have misery with one than happiness with the other.”

- Of Human Bondage by W Somerset Maugham

The novel also delves deeply into the complexities of human relationships. Philip's tumultuous relationship with Mildred Rogers is a focal point, illustrating themes of obsession, unrequited love, and the destructive nature of dependency. Mildred’s manipulative behavior and Philip’s masochistic infatuation highlight the often irrational and self-destructive aspects of love. Philip's interactions with other characters, such as his friendships with Cronshaw and Hayward, further explore the dynamics of support, betrayal, and personal growth.

The novel suggests that true fulfilment in relationships comes from mutual respect and genuine affection, rather than from possessive and one-sided attachments. Philip's eventual relationship with Sally Athelny, characterized by mutual understanding and kindness, contrasts sharply with his earlier entanglement with Mildred, illustrating his personal growth and the novel’s broader commentary on healthy versus toxic relationships.

“It was one of the queer things of life that you saw a person every day for months and were so intimate with him that you could not imagine existence without him; then separation came, and everything went on in the same way, and the companion who had seemed essential proved unnecessary.”

- Of Human Bondage by W Somerset Maugham

The title Of Human Bondage itself underscores the theme of personal freedom versus the constraints imposed by society, relationships, and one’s own inner turmoil. Philip's life is a continuous struggle against various forms of bondage—his physical disability, societal expectations, and his obsessive love for Mildred. These constraints hinder his pursuit of happiness and self-fulfillment. Maugham portrays Philip's journey as a quest for liberation from these external and internal shackles.

The theme is encapsulated in Philip’s realisation: “The future was uncertain, but it was full of rich possibilities. There was no burden upon him anymore. He had the whole world before him to choose from.” This statement reflects Philip’s ultimate attainment of personal freedom, as he learns to navigate life on his own terms, free from the oppressive forces that once dominated his existence.

“There's always one who loves and one who lets himself be loved.”

- Of Human Bondage by W Somerset Maugham

Why It's a Masterpiece

Of Human Bondage is considered a masterpiece for several reasons. Firstly, Maugham’s intricate character development and psychological depth offer a profound exploration of human nature. Philip Carey’s journey is depicted with remarkable realism, capturing the complexities of his inner life and external experiences. Maugham’s ability to convey the subtleties of emotion and thought makes the characters incredibly relatable and their struggles universally understandable.

Secondly, the novel’s thematic richness contributes to its status as a literary classic. The exploration of identity, human relationships, and the quest for personal freedom resonates deeply with readers, as these are perennial aspects of the human condition. Maugham’s skillful interweaving of these themes with the narrative creates a multi-layered reading experience that invites reflection and introspection.

Furthermore, Maugham’s prose style, marked by clarity, elegance, and emotional resonance, enhances the novel’s impact. His keen observations and vivid descriptions bring the story to life, making the settings and characters memorable. The novel’s episodic structure, while following Philip’s growth, allows for a diverse and comprehensive exploration of his life and the various influences that shape him.

Lastly, Of Human Bondage stands out for its honest and unflinching portrayal of life’s hardships and the resilience required to overcome them. Maugham does not shy away from depicting the darker aspects of human experience, such as suffering, rejection, and despair. This realism, combined with the ultimate message of hope and self-discovery, makes the novel profoundly moving and inspiring.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Of Human Bondage by W. Somerset Maugham is a literary tour de force that masterfully delves into the depths of the human experience. Through the life of Philip Carey, Maugham explores themes of identity, relationships, and personal freedom, presenting a narrative that is both deeply personal and universally relatable.

The novel’s rich character development, thematic complexity, and elegant prose contribute to its enduring significance in English literature. Maugham’s ability to portray the struggles and triumphs of his protagonist with such realism and empathy ensures that Of Human Bondage continues to resonate with readers, offering valuable insights into the nature of human resilience and the quest for self-fulfilment. As a timeless exploration of the human condition, the novel remains a poignant reminder of the enduring power of literature to illuminate our deepest truths and aspirations.

Next Week: To the Lighthouse by Virginia Woolf