Description
“The Moon and Sixpence” is a novel written by British author W. Somerset Maugham, first published in 1919. The novel is loosely based on the life of the French Post-Impressionist painter Paul Gauguin and explores themes of artistic passion, rebellion against societal norms, and the pursuit of one’s true calling.
The story is narrated by Charles Strickland, a middle-aged English stockbroker living a conventional and unremarkable life in London. Strickland’s seemingly normal existence takes a dramatic turn when he abandons his family and career to pursue his passion for painting. He leaves behind the comforts of English society and embarks on a tumultuous journey of self-discovery, eventually settling in Tahiti to pursue his art.
The novel delves into Strickland’s transformation from a bourgeois Englishman into a committed and uncompromising artist, shedding light on the sacrifices he makes and the impact of his actions on those around him. Throughout his journey, Strickland remains single-minded in his pursuit of artistic excellence, often at the expense of personal relationships and societal conventions.
“The Moon and Sixpence” explores the complex and sometimes destructive nature of artistic genius, as well as the tension between art and morality. Maugham’s writing is known for its keen observation of human behavior and motivations, and this novel is no exception. It raises questions about the price of artistic brilliance and the clash between society’s expectations and an individual’s creative drive.
The title of the novel is derived from a quote by the 17th-century essayist Samuel Johnson: “He who makes a beast of himself gets rid of the pain of being a man.” This quote encapsulates the essence of Strickland’s character and his willingness to cast aside societal norms and comforts in his pursuit of artistic freedom.
“The Moon and Sixpence” remains a thought-provoking and introspective work that continues to be studied and discussed for its exploration of the complexities of artistic passion and personal transformation.
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