Enchanted by the landscape & people of Spain, Maugham had long resolved to write a picaresque novel about the country. Instead, he wrote a living commentary assessing a great people in their greatest hour. DON FERNANDO, considered by Graham Greene to be Maugham's best work, is a paean to Spain's golden age of enormous creative energy. Beginning with the vivid tale of Loyola's life & conversion, it discusses the writings of St Teresa & the painting of El Greco, & comment with sagacity & wit on such illustrious figures as Cervantes, Luis de Lyon, Lope de Vega, Velasquez & the creator of Don Juan. DON FERNANDO is full of happy surprises, curious facts & stimulating opinions that reflect Maugham's lifelong love & admiration for Spanish culture & civilisation.