Of Human Bondage

By: W. Somerset Maugham

Narrated by: Charlton Griffin

Of Human Bondage is one of the greatest novels of modern times, and it is certainly Maugham's greatest achievement. It was published in 1914, when Maugham was at the height of his creative powers. The story concerns Philip Carey, afflicted at birth with a club foot, and his passionate search for truth in a cruel world. We follow his growth to manhood, his educational progress, his first loves, and the wrenching tragedies and disappointments that life has in store for him. In some of the finest prose of the 20th century, Maugham has presented us with the timeless story of one man's search for the meaning of life.

One of the main themes of the novel is the concept of ambivalence: how we are simultaneously attracted to - and repulsed by - people, objects, thoughts, and actions. Although this was not a new concept in 1914, in the hands of Maugham it was raised to a pitch of literary perfection.

Maugham thought of himself essentially as an entertainer, not as a moral philosopher or preacher. There is in his work an objective cynicism that is almost shocking at times. It is almost embarrassing to read Maugham's frank description of Philip Carey's innermost thoughts and Mildred Roger's callous disregard for anything that does not contribute to her narrow sensuality. But in the end, it is as an entertainer that we enjoy Maugham. His lively conversations and vivid descriptions will keep you listening in fascination.

Public Domain (P)2012 Audio Connoisseur

Masterpiece!

I love this novel because so many life’s lessons are relatable. I’ve always thought of art as the forever preservation of beauty, while life is temporary and messy. In the end Phillip is starting to consider whether he wants the comforting illusion as in art or the imperfect truth of life. This novel shows us to NOT assign meaning to things. In real life, people change, age, disappoint, want to belong, to feel loved and die.

Yes - this is a masterpiece.

Where does Of Human Bondage rank among all the audiobooks you’ve listened to so far?

Dark but with all the fascinating complications of human relationships.

What was one of the most memorable moments of Of Human Bondage?

Growth through painful defeats.

What does Charlton Griffin bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

Love the English accent!

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

Several times I was moved.

Any additional comments?

Because I lead a busy life - I do not have the time to sit and read books like "Of Human Bondage" by Somerset Maugham. Through Audible I take my iPad to each room with me as I get my household chores completed. It is a delight to enter into the world of these classic novels through Audible.

Masterpiece

A well-narrated version of one of my all time favorite movies. I enjoyed every minute of hearing the actual text from which it was derived. It was richer, deeper, and more to love. This classic is a must to anyone's top reading list!

A triumph of life lived

Being captured by a story that plums the depths and heights of life. A feeling of experiencing the heart of it all. We are all flawed and blessed. Cary is a man in full. Why didn’t Phillip try writing. Hmmm
M

One of the greats

Not the spiciest of subject matter, but beautifully written. Delicious character development. Great read for those wanting to experience, and especially to WRITE lasting fiction. I wanted to slap the protagonist silly sometimes--but then realized that he made the most human choices every time. Most hardships cannot be overcome with superpowers or lucky golden parachutes. They must be survived, and you would do well to learn from them.