The Razor's Edge Setting & Symbolism

The Razor's Edge Objects/Places

Principles of Psychology

The book that Maugham sees Larry reading at the club's library is Principles of Psychology. It's the same book he's reading ten hours later when Maugham comes back to change for dinner. It's one of the first signs that Larry is different and an indication of his intellectual interests.

The Drugstore

Before Maugham leaves Chicago, Isabel asks him to stop for an ice cream soda at a drugstore. Here, she tells him the details of her confrontation with Larry about her future, a conversation that ends with him leaving for Paris. It's the start of a long relationship and many long personal conversations between Isabel and Maugham.

Lens

After growing tired of Paris, Larry leaves for a coal-mining town near the French city of Lens. He becomes a mineworker and meets Kosti, which leads to his travels in Germany.

Elliott's Boxer Shorts

While running errands with Elliott, Maugham notices the crest on Elliott's boxer shorts. The...
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