The Magician

W. Somerset Maugham's novel "The Magician" (1909) was controversial for its portrayal of infidelity and occult ritual. It was inspired by stories of Aleister Crowley and crafted a masterpiece of fantasy fiction. Arthur Burdon has everything he could ever want, but when his fiancée elopes with a mysterious magician, he becomes convinced that she is being held against her will. This edition of the novel is a classic work of British literature reimagined for modern readers.

Format: Hardback
Length: 182 pages
Publication date: 15 February 2022
Publisher: West Margin Press

The Magician is a novel by W. Somerset Maugham, published in 1909. It is known for its controversial portrayal of infidelity and occult ritual, which played a significant role in establishing Maugham's reputation as a leading author of the late Victorian era. The novel was inspired by stories of Aleister Crowley, an influential occultist and magician, and it showcases Maugham's mastery of fantasy fiction.

Arthur Burdon, the protagonist of the story, appears to have everything he could ever want. He is a successful surgeon with a promising career, financial stability, and a beautiful young fiancée named Margaret. On a trip to Paris to visit Margaret, who is studying to be an artist, Arthur meets a man named Oliver Haddo, a magician and acquaintance of Burdon's teacher, Dr. Porhoët.

At first, Arthur and his friends are impressed by Haddo's magic tricks, but things soon take a strange turn when Margaret elopes with the mysterious magician. Distraught, Arthur retreats from life and dedicates himself to his work at the hospital. However, when Oliver and Margaret show up at a party in London, Arthur becomes convinced that his ex-lover is being held against her will.

The Magician is a sinister tale of desire, disappointment, and the occult. It explores the complexities of human nature, particularly the nature of love, loyalty, and sacrifice. Maugham's writing is characterized by his keen sense of observation and his ability to create vivid characters and compelling narratives.

The novel's publication in 1909 was met with mixed reviews. Some critics praised Maugham's writing for its wit and sophistication, while others criticized it for its portrayal of morality and sexuality. However, The Magician has since become a classic work of British literature, and it has been reprinted numerous times.

This edition of The Magician is a beautifully designed cover and professionally typeset manuscript. It is a testament to the enduring popularity of Maugham's work and his contribution to the literature of the late Victorian era. Whether you are a fan of fantasy fiction or simply interested in exploring the complexities of human nature, The Magician is a must-read.

Dimension: 203 x 127 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781513135717