MR. MAUGHAM HIMSELF

An unusual approach- this selection of one author's writings, fiction, short pieces, a novel, part of an autobiography -- in order to give a growing sense of his personality in his writings. Such was the aim -- and such the result. Most thoughtful readers have sensed the man behind the book in Of Human Bondage, that novel of our times that might already be considered a classic. Some of the shorter pieces, such as Mr. Harrington's Washing and The Book Bag are only indirectly mirrors of the man, but are immensely good reading, and unfamiliar to many of his admirers. The El Greco essay is memorable, and reread deepens the original impress. All in all, a symposium which enhances Mr. Maugham's reputation in high lighting phases of his work.