On a Chinese Screen

Name: On a Chinese Screen
Author: W. Somerset Maugham

By W. Somerset Maugham

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Travel Writing

About This Book

A sequence of travel sketches paints a vivid portrait of life in a foreign port and its hinterland through street scenes, landscapes, and character studies. The author sketches inns, markets, river vistas, opium dens, altars, and drawing-rooms while observing merchants, officials, missionaries, and other residents. Brief episodes mix anecdote and reflection, emphasizing manners, loneliness, ambition, faith, and the commerce that structures daily life. Precise sensory detail and an ironic, observant voice combine to reveal private motives and social rhythms without imposing moral judgment.

About the Author

W. Somerset Maugham

W. Somerset Maugham was a British playwright, novelist, and short story writer, known for his keen observations of human nature and society. His works often explore themes of love, betrayal, and the complexities of life. Maugham's notable novel, "Of Human Bondage," is a semi-autobiographical account that delves into the struggles of a young man's search for identity and purpose. He was also a prolific playwright, with works such as "East of Suez" and "Cæsar's Wife" showcasing his talent for dialogue and character development. Maugham's literary contributions have left a lasting impact on 20th-century literature.