William Somerset Maugham Quote

Only fools let their fun depend on the outside world.

In its struggle against the individual, society has three weapons: law, public opinion, and conscience.

William Somerset Maugham

The three fundamental duties of a woman are to be beautiful, to be well-dressed, and to not contradict.

William Somerset Maugham

Only a mediocre person is always at their best.

William Somerset Maugham

A philosopher is a person who climbs to a summit in search of the sun; finds fog, descends, and explains the magnificent spectacle that he has seen.

William Somerset Maugham

People ask for criticism, but in reality they only want compliments.

William Somerset Maugham

Reading does not give man wisdom; it gives him knowledge.

William Somerset Maugham

To pray to God with devotion, it is not necessary to believe in God according to the dogmas of any religion.

William Somerset Maugham

People don't look for reasons to do what they want to do, they look for excuses.

William Somerset Maugham

At times excess is stimulating. It prevents the deadly effect of a habit from being acquired through moderation.

William Somerset Maugham

Most people give up their vices only when they cause them discomfort.

William Somerset Maugham

The value of money is that with it we can tell anyone to go to hell. It's the sixth sense that allows you to enjoy the other five.

William Somerset Maugham

Platonic love is like a revolver that we handle without realizing that, as it is loaded, it can go off at any moment.

William Somerset Maugham