Readers' Most Anticipated Books for Fall 2025
A Goodreads user asked this question about The Razor’s Edge:
When we read this book in my AP English class there were a lot of comparisons drawn between it and The Great Gatsby. I feel like this book isn't read as much as Gatsby but in some ways it may be even more important then Gatsby. Does anyone agree with me or am I alone on this one?
Byron The writing in Razor's Edge isn't nearly as compelling as that of The Great Gatsby. When I first read the Razor's Edge in college, I was very impresse…moreThe writing in Razor's Edge isn't nearly as compelling as that of The Great Gatsby. When I first read the Razor's Edge in college, I was very impressed with Maugham's wit and insight into human affairs. But some 30+ years later, while he still has the wit, it's the writing that doesn't hold up. Plenty of throw away phrases in Razor's Edge that add nothing to the story. The story itself is told by way of conversation, not exactly captivating. The most fascinating chapter to be sure is the penultimate where Maugham truly takes the time provide the reader with insight and knowledge about Brahmanism and Indian culture. The rest of the book doesn't captivate, ironically as well as the movie did, although the movie depicted nothing of Indian culture and was completely devoid of any reference to Brahmanism. Gatsby is a beautiful work of fiction and the writing is vastly superior. I don't think it's fair to compare either novel. Maugham was a good writer but his style has aged badly and I was very disappointed at the quality of the writing in Razor's Edge. Great Gatsby has aged like fine wine. (less)
flag
More questions about The Razor’s Edge…
Image for The Razor’s Edge
The Razor’s Edge
by W. Somerset Maugham
Rate this book
Clear rating
1 of 5 stars2 of 5 stars3 of 5 stars4 of 5 stars5 of 5 stars

About Goodreads Q&A

Ask and answer questions about books!

You can pose questions to the Goodreads community with Reader Q&A, or ask your favorite author a question with Ask the Author.

See Featured Authors Answering Questions

Learn more