The Story of Albert Edward Foreman

Albert Edward Foreman's Story

• Albert Edward Foreman is the unassuming verger at St. Peter's Church in Neville Square.
• He serves with enthusiasm and devotion, but his normal duties are interrupted by the new vicar.
• The vicar wants everything to be flawless, and when he learns Foreman is illiterate, he decides to terminate his employment.

The Consequences of Illiteracy

• Foreman is given three months to learn how to read and write, but he declines, claiming he is too old to learn.
• As a result, he loses his job despite his excellent track record.
• Foreman is unhappy and distressed, feeling he has suffered a severe blow.

A New Path

• Foreman decides to open a tobacco shop, which he believes will be successful due to the lack of such shops in the area.
• He rents a suitable store and starts his business, which eventually turns profitable.
• He opens ten branches around London in ten years, becoming a successful businessman.

Banking and Investments

• Foreman's bank account reaches £30,000, and he is advised by the bank manager to invest in secure assets.
• However, Foreman is hesitant, preferring to keep his money safe in the bank.
• When asked to sign investment papers, Foreman reveals his lack of literacy, surprising the bank manager.

Reflections

• Foreman acknowledges that his lack of literacy has not held him back from accumulating wealth.
• He jokingly remarks that if he had been educated, he would still be a verger at St. Peter's Church in Neville Square.

"The Verger" by W.Somerset Maugham

• The story revolves around Albert, a church official who has served for 16 years without being able to read or write.
• A new priest orders Albert to resign from his position after discovering his illiteracy.
• Instead of going home, Albert decides to explore the streets and comes up with the idea to start his own company.
• Albert's story proves that success is possible without a strong education, as long as one has innovative thinking and the courage to stand behind their proposals.

Themes and Symbolism

• The story explores themes such as societal expectations, success, and the value of traditional education.
• Maugham uses the character of Foreman to comment on the importance of practical skills and the arbitrary nature of societal norms.
• The story raises questions about what truly determines one's value and potential in society.

Story Analysis

• The narrative is concise but thought-provoking, making it an excellent exploration of complex themes.
• Maugham's use of Albert's character serves as a commentary on the limitations of traditional education and the power of individual initiative.

Learn about the story of Albert Edward Foreman, a devoted verger at St. Peter's Church, who faces difficulties due to his illiteracy. Discover how his life changes when the new vicar demands perfection.