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Background

Published in 1927 by Heinemann (a London Publisher). It is a collection of related short stories about an agent during WWI, based on Maugham’s own experiences during the war as an agent.

Notice how he draws character (but there is still a plot for each story, and an arc over the course of the whole).

If you read this one to contrast with The Sympathizer, you can see similar themes—isolation, double life, wish for love that remains unfulfilled, duality.

Genre: Literary/Classic/Spy Stories

Setting: Mostly Switzerland, but some other locations

Additional Notes and reviews:

There is a Hitchcock film, Secret Agent (1936) based on two of the stories.

If you enjoy this, or like Maugham, try The House of Doors, a Booker shortlisted title from a few years ago.

Preface and advice to writers, plus Terry will discuss—why he wrote this preface

Theme: Isolation/Duality/Secrets/Love Lost

Things we thought AUTHOR did well as a writer that we would like to emulate.:

• Character: Maugham is able to draw characters with a fine brush. We get details, but we are never given boring descriptions. “The Hairless Mexican” is a favorite for this.

• Tragedy and Humor: Most of Maugham’s characters have tragic arcs. In particular in this one, “Love and Russian Literature” and “Mr. Harrington’s Washing.”

• Spy Conventions: Maugham is writing a more realistic than heroic novel

Other favorites by Maugham:

• Howard’s End

• The Painted Veil

• Of Human Bondage

There have been many film adaptations of his work as well. He is a master of character and the tragic arc. His novels tend to be quiet, but beautiful and compelling. If you write quieter novels, try reading his for some pointers.