The Razor's Edge Critical Analysis

1. Introduction

William Somerset Maugham (25 January 1874 – 16 December 1965), better known as W. Somerset Maugham, was a British playwright, novelist and short story writer. He was among the most popular writers of his era and reputedly the highest-paid author during the 1930s. One of his most popular novels--The Razor’s Edge first published in 1944 was a departure for him in many ways. While much of the novel takes place in Europe, its main characters are American, not British. It tells a story of Larry Darrell, a disillusioned veteran who traumatized by his experiences in World War I. His friend and comrade-in-arms died of saving Larry’s life which impacts on him greatly. From then on, he begins to search for the meaning of life,.refusing

He gets a severely migraines that influences his normal life. Isabel, as his wife, helps him using an Indian form of hypnotic suggestionand never leave or forsake.

When she knows Sophie degenerates after the death of her husband and child, Isabel shows no compaction. She tempts Sophie back into alcoholism after finding Larry sets out to save her and then decides to marry her, which indirectly result in the tragic ending of Sophie.

2.1 Character

The heroin--Isabel is one of the most lively character in the novel. The god seems to favor her completely, giving her excellent good looks. However, under the beauty, her inner world is void conversely. She is material, selfish, hypocritical, inexorable, possessive and eager for sex.

2.1.1 Material

Isabel likes money, she realizes the importance of money instinctively. When Larry relinquishes a golden chance to get a “good” job and talks to Isabel money cannot interest and satisfy him, she says:” Darling, don’t talk like a fool. One can’t live without money.”(Maugham, 1944:44) She gets angry about Larry’s traveling proposition and responses:

…I don’t want to travel second-class on steamships and put up at third-rate hotels, without a bathroom, and eat at cheap