So when this is written it would've been absolutely revolutionary, and I'm not surprised that Forster was reluctant to publish it during his lifetime considering what happened to Oscar Wilde (who was referenced in this book as a metaphor for being gay). I do think this book could've been a little bit more fleshed out if I'm being honest. The development of Maurice's love for Clive and Alec seemed incredibly rushed, and whilst a lot of developments had to happen off page, especially anything physical between the men, the actual act of falling in love could've been described more. The classism as well also wasn't great and whilst we got the happy ending with Maurice seemingly sacrificing his wealth and power to be with Alec, I'm not sure Maurice really understood what that would mean and if he actually changed as a person. I do think the ending as well was a little rushed but I'm glad that it was a happy one.
I do think this had a lot more on the page than I was expecting which made me very happy. I went into this thinking it would be more euphemistic or open to interpretation but it was explicitly queer which was great. I can see why this is a classic. I love that the author was adamant on this having a happy ending and that it was published as such, with Maurice and Alec ending up together. I'm probably going to give this 3.5 ⭐.
