793 Quotes by W. Somerset Maugham

He was thankful not to have to believe in God, for then such a condition of things would be intolerable; one could reconcile oneself to existence only because it was meaningless.(the whole world was like a sick-house, and there was no rhyme or reason in it)

Her pain was so great that she could have screamed at the top of her voice. She had never known that one could suffer so much; and she asked herself desperately what she had done to deserve it.

…I do not mind odious young men; it is when they are charming that I button up the pockets of my sympathy.

Benevolence is often very peremptory.

Philip was shocked by the contrast between the Spaniard's heroic endeavour and the triviality of the thing he attempted.

I'm certain they think you're no better than you should be,' he told her laughing.It's the dream of my life to be taken for an abandoned hussy,' she answered.

Man's desire for the approval of his fellows is so strong, his dread of their censure so violent, that he himself has brought his enemy (conscience) within his gates; and it keeps watch over him, vigilant always in the interests of its master to crush any half-formed desire to break away from the herd.

It was a cold morning, and he shivered a little; but he had been taught by his uncle that his prayers were more acceptable to God if he said them in his nightshirt than if he waited till he was dressed. This did not surprise him, for he was beginning to realise that he was the creature of a God who appreciated the discomfort of his worshippers.

She alone had been blind to his merit. Why? Because he loved her and she did not love him. What was it in the human heart that made you despise a man because he loved you?