I recently read Oscar Wilde’s masterpiece The Picture of Dorian Gray. I have to say the story is genius, something I wish I would have thought of to write myself. Wilde created such strangely unique characters within this book that keep you riveted to the dialogue and action.
For those of you who don’t know the story (I doubt that applies to many) this book is about a man named Dorian Gray who at the start of the novel is innocent, a bit narcissistic but good-natured. As the novel begins to progress, Dorian becomes a darker character as he is introduced to all kinds of immorality by one, Lord Henry Wotton. Henry influences Dorian to do all the sins he himself will not commit. Dorian becomes almost like a test subject for Henry.
Another of Dorian’s friends, Basil, decides to paint a portrait of Dorian and we come to find out that the picture is magical in a way. With each sin that Dorian commits, the picture of himself becomes uglier. Instead of Dorian having to grow uglier because of his rough, dirty life bereft of innocence, the picture takes the ugliness for him. Dorian begins to feel he can commit any crime and never be found out since the guilt, loss of innocence and harshness of his life will never be displayed on his own face but only on his self-portrait.
What follows is a genius story that intrigues and thrills the reader, making us question right and wrong and what we would do if we were given the chance to hide all our sins and never be found out. This tale is deep and it left quite an impression on me after I finished it. If you haven’t read it, please do. It’s a book that will linger on in your mind long after the closing chapter. And really pay attention to the character, Lord Henry. He’s one of the most unique characters I’ve ever come across in a book. His thoughts and beliefs on life are so interesting and they get you to question your own beliefs in life. This is a must read for all you book worms out there that haven’t taken this dark journey with Wilde.
Cozy Corner 
anag7,
Great post I have only read a collection of short stories by Oscar Wilde I did enjoy his writing. Reading this blog has peaked my interest in this novel. Great post.
Thanks, glad to hear I’ve inspired you to read this book. You’ll enjoy it.
Great post! I love that story as well. While I was reading it I couldn’t help but think of Walter White, the main Character in Breaking Bad. Although he doesn’t have a mirror he does change over the seasons from honest chemistry teacher to drug lord. When characters are developed as well as those two, Dorian and Walt, you can’t help but be in awe of the writing. Now if only I can create a character myself like that!