The Picture of Dorian Gray

Oscar Wilde’s only full-length novel “The Picture of Dorian Gray” was first published in 1890 and is the classic tale of the moral decline of its title character, Dorian Gray. While Dorian has his portrait painted by Basil Hallward he is lectured to by Lord Henry Wotton, who espouses a hedonistic worldview. Dorian is drawn to Wotton’s belief that beauty and sensuality are the only things in life worth pursuing and wishes that he would stay young while his portrait changes instead. In the years that follow Dorian pursues a life of vice and debauchery, committing unspeakable acts along the way. With the passage of time, Dorian’s wish comes true, as his age and withering moral character are reflected in his portrait instead of himself. “The Picture of Dorian Gray” is arguably one of Wilde’s most popular works, which caused quite a scandal in Victorian England when it was first published, for its glorification of decadence. A chilling tale, “The Picture of Dorian Gray” is at once both an intricate character study and a sharp criticism of the improprieties of the Victorian age.

The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Very dark and philosophical. Wilde is so descriptive of the setting that you can become lost in it.

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This is quite a disturbing book.  I did not know what the book was about when I began reading it.  Wilde's description of Dorian Gray as observed by Basil is so sensual, I was sure that the book was going to be about some gay attraction in Victorian England.  As I read farther, I realized the centrality of Dorian Gray's physical perfection to the plot.

It was easy to become lost in the setting of the book.  Wilde painted clearly the context at every turn.  The color of each flower.  The sound of each particular insect.  The tint of the reflection off of windows given the hour of the day.  I do not believe I have ever read a book with such attention to detail.  This symbolism becomes evident only after reaching deep into the story.

Though Wilde's tale was written in Victorian England, his work could have been penned today by King or Koontz with the same characters.  We as a global society are so consumed with beauty that the worth of the soul (the person) has become secondary.  I encourage everyone to read this book and take an in-depth look inside themselves.  What counts?  Would you sacrifice your soul for physical perfection?