The Picture of Dorian Gray
"I knew that I had come face to face with someone whose mere personality was so fascinating that, if I allowed it to do so, it would absorb my whole nature, my whole soul, my very art itself."
Oscar Wilde's most renowned masterpiece is as fascinating as the painting of Dorian. Like the painting itself the book highlights the tender subject of appearance versus intelligence. The beautiful young Dorian Gray is immortalised, literally, in a painting by an artist Basil who dotes on Dorian for simply his beauty. But the quick witted and interesting Lord Henry sweeps young Dorian off his feet and leads him astray. Whilst each of Dorian's sins are reflected in his painting, Dorian remains young and beautiful, continuing his life of sin for years and years, until it becomes his downfall.
The Picture of Dorian Gray is such a quick easy read, and I found myself caught up in the story line, feeling almost as sinful as Dorian for enjoying his devastating acts of heartbreak and pseudo self abuse. Wilde's writing style is descriptive and a pure embodiment of classic prose, with excellent use of dialogue and description that made me feel as though I was walking alongside the characters, watching their activities. It's quickly made it's way into my favourite book list, and I intend to purchase more of his works.
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