In 'The Picture of Dorian Gray,' Oscar Wilde explores the seductive nature of beauty and the perils of indulgence. Young Dorian Gray, enchanted by his own portrait, wishes to remain forever youthful while the painting bears the marks of his moral decadence. As he delves deeper into a hedonistic lifestyle, the lines between art and reality blur, leading to devastating consequences. Wilde's sharp wit and rich prose invite readers to ponder the true cost of eternal youth and aesthetic pleasure. Will Dorian escape his own soul's corruption, or will the portrait's true face ultimately be revealed?
By Oscar Wilde
Published: 1993
"The only way to get rid of a temptation is to yield to it."
A handsome, dissolute man who sells his soul for eternal youth is horrified to see the reflection of his degeneration in the distorted features of his portrait.
Oscar Wilde (1854-1900) was an Irish poet, playwright, and novelist renowned for his sharp wit, flamboyant style, and socially critical works. His most notable works include 'The Picture of Dorian Gray,' 'The Importance of Being Earnest,' and 'An Ideal Husband.' Wilde's writing is characterized by its eloquent language, satirical commentary on Victorian society, and exploration of aestheticism and hedonism. He remains a pivotal figure in literature, celebrated for his humor and insight into human nature.
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'Cat's Cradle' is a satirical novel that explores the absurdities of modern technology and religion through the perspective of Jonah, a writer on a quest to document the creation of 'Ice-Nine'—a substance with the potential to freeze the world. As he uncovers the chilling secrets behind this dangerous invention, Jonah encounters a cast of quirky characters, including the enigmatic scientist Dr. Felix Hoenikker and the eccentric cult leader, the Church of God the Whole Event. Vonnegut's sharp wit and dark humor highlight the moral dilemmas of scientific advancement and the existential questions of human existence. With a blend of science fiction and philosophical inquiry, the novel challenges readers to contemplate the impact of their actions on humanity and the planet. Will Jonah uncover the truth before it's too late, or will he become yet another casualty of a world spiraling into chaos?
In 'Lincoln in the Bardo,' George Saunders weaves a haunting tale set in the graveyard of Georgetown, where the spirit of Abraham Lincoln's son, Willie, lingers after his untimely death. The narrative unfolds through a chorus of voices—both living and dead—creating a rich tapestry of grief, love, and the struggle for understanding. As Lincoln grapples with his loss, spectral figures provide profound insights into the nature of mortality and the afterlife. This unique blend of historical fiction and the supernatural invites readers to reflect on the connections between the living and the dead. Prepare to be captivated by a story that transcends time, examining the very essence of humanity.
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“The only way to get rid of a temptation is to yield to it.”
The Picture of Dorian Gray
By Oscar Wilde
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