The Novel of Classic Controversy

#5  The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde

Oscar Wilde looking fancy

 The Picture of Dorian Gray is a mirror into the world of Oscar Wilde. This author was no stranger to celebrity. In fact, Wilde understood the power of being talked about to the point that he could be compared to the likes of Lady Gaga today. But, it was not just the writing, fancy dress, or traveling about America to teach aesthetics which made Wilde the talk of his time. It's safe to say the real controversy came from his slowly unveiled identity which clashed with mode of Victorian society. 

Dorian Gray is a beautiful youth.  An artist paints his picture finishing it at the most opportune moment when Dorian Gray is struck with the thoughtful expression of a deeper meaning on his face.  It is the look of realization, and the surrender of his blissful ignorance.  Seeing the picture will remain in the same moment it was finished for all time, Dorian realizes the picture will always lie in showing his youth even after he ages.  Dorian is taught earlier than most that his good looks will slowly fade to the undeveloped nothing underneath.

After reading only the first few sentences, I was immediately impressed by the language alone. For quite some time I've been developing my own voice by considering things like the lack of beauty especially in the English literature, and interestingly enough, this is worth mentioning early in the novel by Oscar Wilde. Because, that's exactly where this story finds its place up on the shelf. It's a fantasy to read. Though it's not always happy, it is enchanting to be within the story.

Most of the time, it's hard to really figure out what the guests are rambling on about at their dinner parties, but no one seems to notice, for the dialogue continues to hold the crowd in expression alone rather than needing to rely on the reasoning of it all.

So far, this book has made me rediscover why I wanted to become a writer, and it's like a breath of fresh air. It’s often that I struggle with developing the most unique and original grand theme- A reason larger than life to write and convey in the best way, exactly what it is I have to say. Though I almost forgot why I found writing my niche in the first place. For the controversy... boom, explosion, gasp!

Dorian Gray in The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen (2003)

It has always been a goal of mine to uncover the lies in life. I feel it's wiser to be skeptical of what others would have you believe is reality. This may be the real reason why a person chooses the arts. Once the ideas turn to words that burn in your mouth and you can no longer hold them back, you are ready to write.