{"product_id":"the-razors-edge-rare-books","title":"The Razor's Edge by W.Somerset Maugham [rare books]","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"987\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"61\"\u003eBook Summary – \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"61\" data-end=\"64\"\u003e\u003cem data-start=\"64\" data-end=\"82\"\u003eThe Razor’s Edge\u003c\/em\u003e (published in 1944) is a philosophical novel that follows the spiritual journey of Larry Darrell, a young American who returns home after serving in World War I. Traumatized by his wartime experiences, Larry rejects the materialistic lifestyle of his wealthy friends and sets off in search of deeper meaning in life. His quest takes him to Paris, India, and beyond as he explores philosophy, spirituality, and the purpose of existence. In contrast, his friends—like Isabel, who values wealth and comfort, and Elliott, a symbol of social ambition—represent the superficial pursuits of society. Through their intertwined stories, Maugham explores themes of enlightenment, materialism, love, and the struggle between worldly desires and inner peace. The novel’s title, inspired by a verse from the \u003cem data-start=\"878\" data-end=\"895\"\u003eKatha Upanishad\u003c\/em\u003e, reflects the difficulty of walking the “razor’s edge” path toward spiritual realization.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"989\" data-end=\"1835\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"989\" data-end=\"1032\"\u003eAbout the Author – \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1032\" data-end=\"1035\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWilliam Somerset Maugham\u003c\/strong\u003e (1874–1965) was a renowned British novelist, playwright, and short story writer, celebrated for his keen observations of human nature and society. Educated at King’s School, Canterbury, and Heidelberg University, Maugham initially trained as a doctor before turning to literature. His works often explore themes of morality, disillusionment, and the complexities of human emotion. Some of his most famous works include \u003cem data-start=\"1479\" data-end=\"1497\"\u003eOf Human Bondage\u003c\/em\u003e, \u003cem data-start=\"1499\" data-end=\"1522\"\u003eThe Moon and Sixpence\u003c\/em\u003e, and \u003cem data-start=\"1528\" data-end=\"1546\"\u003eThe Painted Veil\u003c\/em\u003e. Known for his clear prose and insightful character studies, Maugham became one of the most popular and commercially successful writers of the early 20th century. His writing combines realism with deep psychological understanding, making him a lasting figure in modern English literature.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Best of used books","offers":[{"title":"Used","offer_id":44270438908161,"sku":"2UMOQ6VWH-Used","price":499.0,"currency_code":"INR","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0421\/4299\/0495\/files\/razor.jpg?v=1693998712","url":"https:\/\/bestofusedbooks.com\/products\/the-razors-edge-rare-books","provider":"Best Of Used Books","version":"1.0","type":"link"}