Of Human Bondage

The narrative centers on Philip Carey, a young man with a clubbed foot, as he navigates life after being orphaned. Drawing from Maugham's own experiences, the story unfolds through Philip's travels across Germany, Paris, and London, highlighting his quest for identity and fulfillment. His relationships with four significant women—each representing different aspects of love and ambition—shape his journey. The novel poignantly examines the tension between personal aspirations and the limitations of reality, making it a profound coming-of-age tale.