Student Question
How does art and the artist influence our perception of social good in Maugham's The Moon and Sixpence?
Quick answer:
In Maugham's The Moon and Sixpence, the artist Strickland influences our perception of social good by rejecting societal norms and personal relationships for the sake of art. His indifference to social conventions and disregard for others highlight a conflict between artistic devotion and social responsibility. Strickland's art is a selfish pursuit, not aimed at benefiting society, challenging the idea that art should contribute to the common good.
The Moon and Sixpence depicts an artist who cares little for social conventions or the welfare of society. Strickland is an artist who cares little for anyone: he abandons his family in London in order to paint, rejects Blanche after she has served her purpose as his model, and does not even bother to expose his art to the public. He doesn't care about the opinions of others and alarms his acquaintances with his impoverished dwelling, a lifestyle that he has chosen by not selling his paintings.
Strickland's painting is largely a selfish endeavor - it is not intended to benefit the common good. Though the narrator arguably admires Strickland's devotion to his work and his independence from social conventions, the artist has no concern for anyone.
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