Somerset Maugham – Then and Now 1955 1st Turkish Book Turkey

Somerset Maugham – Evvel Zaman İçinde (Then and Now) – Çağlayan Kitabevi Turkish Edition (1955) – First Edition

Description:

This is the Turkish first edition of Then and Now, published under the title Evvel Zaman İçinde by Çağlayan Kitabevi in 1955. Written by Somerset Maugham, the novel is a historical fiction that explores political ambition, moral flexibility, and the complex nature of power during the Renaissance period.

The story is set in 15th-century Italy and follows Niccolò Machiavelli, focusing on his political environment, strategic thinking, and the realities of court life. As events unfold, the narrative examines how power is acquired and maintained, and how personal ethics are often challenged by political necessity. The book presents a realistic and often ironic view of political life, highlighting the tension between idealism and practicality.

Somerset Maugham is known for his clear and insightful prose, as well as his ability to portray moral complexity within both modern and historical settings. In this work, he blends historical detail with psychological observation to create a vivid portrait of political life.

For collectors, this 1955 Turkish pocket-size first edition represents an early translation of a major literary historical novel. Published by Çağlayan Kitabevi, it reflects the mid-20th century Turkish publishing tradition of compact editions with locally designed illustrated covers. Its historical subject matter and collectible format make it a notable piece.

Key Features:

• Title: Evvel Zaman İçinde (Then and Now)

• Author: Somerset Maugham

• Publisher: Çağlayan Kitabevi

• Publication Year: 1955

• Edition: First Edition

• Language: Turkish

• Format: Pocket-size novel

• Genre: Historical fiction, literary drama

• Themes: Power, politics, ambition, morality, Renaissance Italy

• Narrative Style: Historical, character-driven literary storytelling

• Cover: Turkish artist illustrated cover

• Collector Appeal: Early Turkish pocket edition with local cover artwork