The Picture of Dorian Gray

Oscar Wilde

1890

October, 2023

9/10

(of the 2011 "uncensored" edition -- 1890 typescript)

Dialogue befitting of a play with excellent execution. The early descriptions of the characters certainly read with "romance" which is to be expected with knowledge of Oscar Wilde.

The prose can be a bit excessive at times with far too much description that sometimes feels like its sole purpose is alliteration. However, the writing feels alive. Wilde's passion comes across articulately. Even with the over-the-top descriptions.

Some moments feel like feminist satire, particularly Henry's descriptions of women — they are quite comical at times, especially when contrasted with Dorian's descriptions being rather feminine in nature. But it all plays together to create a romanticization of romance — the "love of love" that is so often mentioned in the book.

All throughout, the description of "beautiful things" is, in itself, beautiful. I particularly liked the impact of Wilde's fictional book on Dorian.

One question is left vaguely unanswered: was Dorian ever happy? The ending perhaps provides an answer. But the ambiguity and questions thus posed makes the book great.