Synopsis (from Goodreads)
Oscar Wilde's only novel, first published in 1890, is a brilliant puzzle, intended to tease convention minds with its exploration of the myriad interrelationships between art, life, and consequence. From its provocative preface, challenging the reader to believe in "art for art's sake," to its sensational conclusion, the book explores the nature of sin through the tale of a young man who sells his soul for a lifetime of beauty.
Rating
2/5 Stars
Review (contains some spoilers)
The Picture of Dorian Grey was the first book I chose to read on my new Nook, and I don't know if it was the right choice. Oscar Wilde uses a lot of flowing language that can get tedious in my opinion. Following it on my Nook was not easy to do and I couldn't follow the story as clearly as I would of liked. It did get better by the end, and it seemed easier to understand. I don't know if that is because I had gotten used to Oscar Wilde's prose after 150 pages.
Dorian Grey is portrayed as a sympathetic character even after he continues to indulge his pleasures which slowly destroys his soul, which is captured in his painting. It seems as though Lord Henry's (otherwise referred to as Harry) purpose was to be Dorian's devil or temptation and Basil Hallward, the artist who painted the famed picture, served as Dorian's moral compass. It was an interesting dynamic that we didn't get enough of throughout the story. Dorian just seems to be a lone flag that bends to whichever wind is blowing the strongest.
As a classic, The Picture of Dorian Grey did not blow me away. I was not thoroughly impressed with the story but I'm glad I read it. I'm hoping my next attempt to read a classic goes more smoothly.
Dorian Grey is portrayed as a sympathetic character even after he continues to indulge his pleasures which slowly destroys his soul, which is captured in his painting. It seems as though Lord Henry's (otherwise referred to as Harry) purpose was to be Dorian's devil or temptation and Basil Hallward, the artist who painted the famed picture, served as Dorian's moral compass. It was an interesting dynamic that we didn't get enough of throughout the story. Dorian just seems to be a lone flag that bends to whichever wind is blowing the strongest.
As a classic, The Picture of Dorian Grey did not blow me away. I was not thoroughly impressed with the story but I'm glad I read it. I'm hoping my next attempt to read a classic goes more smoothly.
Happy Reading!
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