This read was very compelling and intriguing. It is a fictional but universal and applicable tale of morality, friendship, hedonism, and vanity.
From the beginning you can see the humanity and compassion that Dorian Gray has, but over time, those virtues wear away. Because of inherent human weaknesses, Oscar Wilde often portrays Dorian's sinful lifestyle and philosophy in a somewhat rational and glamorous way. You can see the huge impacts that both Lord Henry and the painting make on Dorian, and how they feed his insatiable greed. Although Dorian goes throughout his life trying to live in a carefree manner, the guilt and consequences always find their way back to him.
This novel shows that the striving for youthfulness, beauty, and pleasure is never an easy or rewarding path. In the pursuit of aesthetic indulgence and superficial gratification, one often loses a sense of reality and humanity. And although forgiveness and redemption are on the horizon, wickedness and fear eventually consume him.
I recommend this book to those who are thinking about selling their soul to the devil.. just kidding! This book is a great read for anyone. At times is can be overwhelmingly dark and cynical, but overall it delivers a very thought-provoking and enlightening message.
-Amber
