"The Moon and Sixpence" is a novel written by William Somerset Maugham, first published in 1919. The novel is loosely based on the life of the French artist Paul Gauguin.

The story follows the life of Charles Strickland, a middle-aged stockbroker who abandons his family and career in London to pursue his passion for painting in Paris. Strickland is a cold and indifferent man who prioritizes his art over everything else, even his wife and children. His life becomes increasingly difficult as he becomes a social outcast and a failure, but he never wavers in his commitment to his art.

The novel explores themes of art, passion, and the conflict between personal desires and societal expectations. It raises questions about the value of pursuing one's dreams at the expense of others and the nature of true artistic expression. Despite his selfish and ruthless actions, Strickland's determination and passion for art serve as a reminder that following one's dreams can be a difficult but worthwhile endeavor.

"The Moon and Sixpence" is a captivating novel that not only introduces the symbolic meanings of the moon and六便士 but also invites readers to reflect deeply on the nature of art, life, and human nature.