Cakes and Ale

Cakes and Ale, or, The Skeleton in the Cupboard

Originally published in 1930, Cakes and Ale is a satirical novel by W. Somerset Maugham. The book is a sharp satire of the literary world, exploring themes of fame, class, morality, relationships, and social issues.

Plot Overview

The novel is narrated by William Ashenden, a writer who knew the late novelist Edward Driffield in his youth. When colleague Alroy Kear asks Ashenden to help with Driffield's official biography, it prompts recollections of Ashenden's youth in the seaside town of Blackstable and his later encounters in sophisticated society. The narrative details Driffield's humble origins, his public reputation versus his private life, his bohemian history, and his first wife, Rosie Driffield.

Rosie is a warm, honest, and sexually free woman who serves as a muse to surrounding artists. While her character is treated favorably by Ashenden, she faces social snobbery and conservative disapproval from London's literary elite. The title of the book is taken from a remark by Sir Toby Belch in William Shakespeare's play, Twelfth Night.

Key Features

• Narrator: Features Maugham's recurring narrator, William Ashenden.
• Roman à Clef: Includes recognizable portraits of figures from the literary establishment, with elements inspired by Thomas Hardy and Hugh Walpole.
• Themes: Explores literary fame, art, morality, truth, memory, desire, freedom, and social issues.
• Introduction: Select editions include an introduction by Nicholas Shakespeare.

Available Formats

• Paperback & Hardcover: Print editions presenting the complete, unabridged text.
• Ebook: DRM-free EPUB compatible with Kindle, Kobo, Apple Books, and other major e-readers.
• Audiobook: Professionally narrated, complete and unabridged.

Product Specifications

• Author: W.