This is a curious novel by Somerset Maugham written and published in 1908. The lead character, or rather, the titular character is a literally largely than life man named Oscar Haddo, who is into parlor tricks, and other occultish type things. He’s based or at least figured on Alastair Crowley. The plot involves Haddo being introduced into a polite society who is confused and bemused as whether they love him or hate him, or love him because they hate him. He’s oafish but quite alluring. […]