The Picture of Dorian Gray

Dorian Gray is arrogant. He is pompous, selfish, devastatingly narcissistic, and for much of his life he has never had to think twice about the ramifications of his actions.

When the arrival of artist Basil Hallard forces Gray to confront his deepest insecurities, Dorian's most vulnerable self is imminently revealed. After having traded his righteousness for riches, Dorian Gray becomes faced with many regrettable truths he must learn to tackle head on. Needing to own up to his actions, Gray must finally learn to deal with the consequences of living a life that completely self-obsessed. Gripping with relatable prose analogous to the many conundrums of growing up, Wilde weaves a narrative of both self-desire and self-actualization. The Picture of Dorian Gray is a true coming of age tale in a time where the glamour of appearances was as heavy as the currency in your pocket.

Oscar Wilde (1854-1909) was a fiercely misunderstood, yet brilliantly accomplished 19th century British author, journalist, and resounding personality. Among many things, Oscar Wilde was known for his overall flamboyance, sharp intellectual wit, and firm belief in the philosophical movement of art-for-art's sake. Wilde rose to fame through the success of a culmination of his works resulting in his first and only novel, The Picture of Dorian Gray. While battling constant and oppressive accusations of homosexuality, Wilde continued producing works of great art despite facing such harsh accusations of criminal erotic behavior. In addition to his work as an author, Wilde scripted the now famous play, The Importance of Being Earnest, which was recognized in literary circles as an indelible success and would carry his reputation through the many future tribulations Wilde faced as an artist.