Cakes and Ale
Cakes and Ale by W. Somerset Maugham, published by Penguin Books in 1975, is a satirical exploration of London literary society during the interwar period. This edition, comprising 204 pages, presents the story of Alroy Kear, a social climber who is chosen by the wife of celebrated novelist Edward Driffield to write his official biography. As Kear embarks on this endeavor, he uncovers the complexities surrounding Driffield’s first wife, Rosie, whose vibrant past poses challenges to the novelist’s carefully crafted public persona.
Readers will find a narrative rich in wit and insight, as Maugham delves into themes of ambition, reputation, and the intricacies of personal relationships within the literary world. The book examines the dynamics between Kear, Driffield, and Rosie, highlighting the tensions that arise from their interconnected lives. Cakes and Ale offers a thoughtful commentary on the nature of fame and the often-hidden stories that shape public figures, making it a notable work within British and Irish fiction.
Official synopsis Publisher
Cakes and Ale is a delicious satire of London literary society between the Wars. Social climber Alroy Kear is flattered when he is selected by Edward Driffield’s wife to pen the official biography of her lionized novelist husband, and determined to write a bestseller. But then Kear discovers the great novelist’s voluptuous muse (and unlikely first wife), Rosie. The lively, loving heroine once gave Driffield enough material to last a lifetime, but now her memory casts an embarrissing shadow over his career and respectable image. Wise, witty, deeply satisfying, Cakes and Ale is Maugham at his best.
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