Review:

Review of The Picture of Dorian Grey by John (Galway)

I have just finished reading Oscar Wilde's first and only novel, The Picture Of Dorian Gray. It was first published in 1891 at a time when Wilde was at the height of his fame.  The book was recently chosen as part of Dublin's onecityonebook event.
 
It tells the story of a rich,young and extremely good looking gentleman called Dorian Gray.  Dorian is a respectable member of society who appears to have it all.  However it is his incredibly good looks which make him stand out among his peers.  One day Dorian sees a portrait of himself which has been painted by his good friend Basil Hallward.  At first Dorian is overcome with joy as he realises just how beautiful he really is.  However he then becomes overcome with sadness as he realises that one day he will grow old and lose his good looks.  He remembers what his other friend Lord Henry Wotton told him, youth was the only thing worth having.  He desperately wants to keep his youth and for the portrait to grow old instead.  He says he would sell his soul to achieve this.
 
As the book goes on we learn that Dorian's wish has come true but not without a price.  Dorian's soul becomes more corrupt and eventually ends up committing murder.  In summary I liked the book and found it easy to read.  The chapters were not too long which is something I always like in a book.  For any fans of Wilde, The Importance of Being Earnest is coming to Dublin's Gaiety Theatre form june 2 - june 20.  To quote the great man " always forgive your enemies,nothing annoys them so much.

Article posted on 7th of May 2010