Reviews

The uncensored Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde, Akshay Gawde

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afrinhossain's review

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dark mysterious reflective slow-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? No
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

amandajwampler's review against another edition

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5.0

Oh the drama of this book. It’s wonderful. I love when people throw themselves into chairs in shock/agony/disbelief etc.

Deeply philosophical and genuinely such a good exploration of hedonistic selfishness. Incredibly homoerotic (lol). These character were so cruel and vain and self-serving, and they were a joy to read even though they were truly bad. Wilde is an incredible writer who keeps you captivated and enthralled in the dramatics of these peoples lives.

caitlinann's review

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mysterious reflective medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? It's complicated
Loveable characters? No
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

cowardlyteaman's review against another edition

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emotional reflective sad slow-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

While the focus here isn't primarily anyone's sexuality (though it is mentioned), but Dorian's own relation with himself and the not traditionally masculine way this was written. I can see how this is an important piece in LGBT history.

I really enjoyed this read, and I love how varied the characters personalities are. On the question «Is the cast diverse?» I said no only because they're all white and in connection to the upper class, and that's what I assume the question is about, not the personality of the characters themselves.

This was wonderfully written, and entertaining as well, but the little thing I'm missing is a personal relation to them. I liked Basil, I liked Dorian, but neither evoked any stronger feeling than that.

Also, I must say that I got nervous for a while there, but am glad it ended with some death and tragedy.

Definitely worth a read! It's not very long, and has a limited set of important characters, so it's not hard to keep up with.

Content Warnings