W. Somerset Maugham was a British playwright, novelist, and short story writer, born on January 25, 1874, in Paris, France. He is best known for his works that explore human nature and the complexities of life, often drawing from his own experiences as a traveler and a medical student. His most famous novels include Of Human Bondage and The Razor's Edge. Maugham's writing style is characterized by clarity and simplicity, making his stories accessible to a wide audience. He was also a prominent figure in the literary world during the early 20th century, and his works have been adapted into numerous films and plays, solidifying his legacy as a significant literary figure.