W. Somerset Maugham Quotes

It is well known that Beauty does not look with a ... -W. Somerset Maugham

It is well known that Beauty does not look with a good grace on the timid advances of Humour.

Money is like a sixth sense without which you cann... -W. Somerset Maugham

Money is like a sixth sense without which you cannot make a complete use of the other five.

A man marries to have a home, but also because he doesn't want to be bothered with sex and all that sort of thing.

The artist produces for the liberation of his soul. It is his nature to create as it is the nature of water to run down the hill.

Imagination grows by exercise, and contrary to common belief, is more powerful in the mature than in the young.

It is not wealth one asks for, but just enough to preserve one's dignity, to work unhampered, to be generous, frank and independent.

We are not the same persons this year as last; nor are those we love. It is a happy chance if we, changing, continue to love a changed person.

Only a mediocre person is always at his best.

Discovering the context

This quote satirically suggests that truly exceptional individuals are not always at their peak performance. It implies that mediocrity may appear consistent but true greatness involves growth, learning, and occasional setbacks in pursuit of excellence.

Writing is the supreme solace.

Marriage is a very good thing, but I think it's a ... -W. Somerset Maugham

Marriage is a very good thing, but I think it's a mistake to make a habit out of it.

Love is only a dirty trick played on us to achieve... -W. Somerset Maugham

Love is only a dirty trick played on us to achieve continuation of the species.

Impropriety is the soul of wit.

Discovering the context

This quote implies that witty or clever humor often involves elements of impropriety or deviating from conventional norms. It suggests that unconventional or slightly inappropriate humor can be intellectually engaging or amusing.

Beauty is an ecstasy; it is as simple as hunger. There is really nothing to be said about it. It is like the perfume of a rose: you can smell it and that is all.

There are two good things in life - freedom of tho... -W. Somerset Maugham

There are two good things in life - freedom of thought and freedom of action.

If a nation values anything more than freedom, it will lose its freedom, and the irony of it is that if it is comfort or money that it values more, it will lose that too.

The crown of literature is poetry.

Discovering the context

This quote emphasizes the elevated status of poetry within the realm of literature. It suggests that poetry holds a position of distinction and superiority, symbolized by the metaphorical "crown." It implies that poetry is considered the most esteemed and revered form of literary expression.

Death doesn't affect the living because it has not happened yet. Death doesn't concern the dead because they have ceased to exist.

What makes old age hard to bear is not the failing of one's faculties, mental and physical, but the burden of one's memories.

You are not angry with people when you laugh at th... -W. Somerset Maugham

You are not angry with people when you laugh at them. Humor teaches tolerance.

Discovering the context

This quote suggests that humor can foster tolerance and understanding. It implies that finding amusement in others' actions or behaviors can diffuse anger and promote a more accepting perspective.

The world in general doesn't know what to make of originality; it is startled out of its comfortable habits of thought, and its first reaction is one of anger.