A review by alovelettertoliterature
The Picture of Dorian Gray [Penguin Twentieth Century Classics] by Oscar Wilde

challenging dark emotional mysterious sad tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? No
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

The story follows a young, handsome man name Dorian Gray who becomes morally corrupt with worldly things, youth and beauty. 

Although the book focuses on Dorian Gray, the scope of the topics and conversations in this book is beyond that. It’s dark, it’s alluring and just so beautifully articulated into words. It talks about art, politic, society, morality, vanity and so much more. 

This book was ahead of its time when it was first published. The piece of art by Wilde was not only banned at some certain point but it also helped sent Wilde to jail for its sexual undertones. 

The conversations between Lord Henry and Dorian were the most interesting to me, especially as we started off with Dorian Gray who was innocent and uncorrupted to the point where he was ripped from all that through Lord Henry’s influences. It just shows how words is a strong weapon that can be utilized to influence, change and even corrupt an individual. 

My suggestion when going into this book is take your time. Do not rush the process. Even though it is around 200+- pages, it is very slow paced. Some parts of the story could seem boring but if you pay closer attention to it, these words make you think and ponder on whatever the subject may be. 

This masterpiece is truly a work of art. One rule i have for books i consider to be a masterpiece is that it needs to withstand time. It needs to contain ideas that will not only be relevant today but anytime in the past, present and future. 

This book is one of those book that is better when you pick it up knowing barely anything about it. But i promise you when finish reading, much of your perspective and outlook on life will be expanded.