The Moon and Sixpence

Inspired by the life of Paul Gauguin, The Moon & Sixpence is an intricate exploration of the nature of genius and the singlemindedness it takes. Charles Strickland, a nondescript stockbroker, suddenly leaves his wife and children in search of artistic greatness. As he embarks on a journey that takes him from Paris to Tahiti, Strickland experiences periods of intensive work, shocking callousness, and astonishing indolence. In this stunning portrait of obsession and self-centredness, Maugham asks two fundamental questions: what defines brilliance? And can the price paid by the artist ever be worth it?