The Picture of Dorian Gray – Oscar Wilde

“If a man were invincible, why would he act justly?”

- The Republic, Socrates. [Adapted]

All of us live dual lives. Many of our actions are done to please the society , to “fit in”. But what if we didn't have to? What if , we were blessed with a mask, that hid all our follies, no matter what?The picture of Dorian Gray , is the story of such a man.

On seeing a life-like portrait of his, Dorian, wishes to be young forever and wishes that his portrait grows older instead. His wish is granted and all of his actions(good or bad) leave him unspoiled and untainted. The world always sees his youthful and charming avatar . However, his debaucharies and misdeeds change his portrait , which becomes a mirror to his soul. How does a man deal with that? What does one do when the only one looking , is your own self?

While reading this book, I found myself admiring the subtlety of the author. The witty comments which Lord Henry makes on the subjects of hedonism,society and marriage made me laugh. At the same time, I couldn't help but wonder at the depth of the insight. What would I have done if I had been Dorian Gray? The greatness of the author lies in the way the story is presented and the fact that the reader is left to draw his own conclusions from it. The sarcastic commentry on victorian society makes the book a great read.

Key issues it deals with

• Is man an animal, tamed only by the laws of society? Or do we really have an inner conscience guiding us?
• Who is responsible for your actions? Was it the knife who killed the man or the hand which held the knife?
• Bad advice can destroy a man's life. However, even in such a situation, whose fault is it? The giver's or the taker's ?

Memorable Quotes 

“The only way to get rid of a temptation is to yield to it.”

"Humanity takes itself too seriously. It is the world's original sin. If the cave-man had known how to laugh, History would have been different."

“You will always be fond of me. I represent to you all the sins you never had the courage to commit.”

“Experience is merely the name men gave to their mistakes.”

Of the many books I have read, The Picture of Dorian Gray, is definitely amongst the best. Read it,if only, to laugh at Lord Henry's comments and admire their depth.