Orientations: Classic Book Guide and Free Edition
Orientations: author and translator credits, catalogue synopsis, subjects and links to the Gutenberg reading formats.

Orientations is catalogued by Project Gutenberg with author credits for Maugham, W. Somerset (William Somerset) (1874–1965).
Catalogue synopsis
Project Gutenberg supplies this automated synopsis of the opening text:
"Orientations" by W. Somerset Maugham is a collection of short stories written in the late 19th century. The book explores themes of morality, social class, and human relationships through narratives that often reflect Maugham's keen observations of society. The opening story, titled "The Punctiliousness of Don Sebastian," introduces readers to the eccentricities of Spanish nobility and their complex interactions, setting the tone for a work filled with wit and philosophical musing. The opening of "Orientations" presents the character of Don Sebastian, set in the secluded town of Xiormonez, Spain. The narrative unfolds as a traveler, unexpectedly stranded in this remote place, encounters the local duke, who reveals the history and artistry behind his family's tombs. Through rich descriptions, the setting establishes a mysterious atmosphere while delving into Don Sebastian's life, relationships, and regrets, particularly surrounding his deceased wife, Doña Sodina. Their story weaves together themes of love, fidelity, and social expectations, creating a compelling introduction to Maugham's exploration of the human condition.
Book and edition facts
- Title: Orientations
- Author credits: Maugham, W. Somerset (William Somerset) (1874–1965)
- Catalogue language: English
Catalogue subjects
- Fiction
- Short stories, English
Gutenberg collections
- Category: British Literature
- Category: Short Stories
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View the complete Gutenberg catalogue record. Project Gutenberg identifies this edition as public domain in the United States; that designation does not establish its copyright status in every country.
Source notes
Catalogue metadata is public domain and is supplied through Gutendex, which imports Gutenberg's machine-readable catalogue. The automated synopsis is source-supplied, not an independently verified review. Author dates above describe the credited people; no ebook release date is presented as the book's original publication date.


