EfficientAd9765 t1_ito03y9 wrote on October 25, 2022 at 1:18 AM

Unpopular opinion, but I really didn't like the book.

The philosophy of Henry felt more like his misogyny/biterness packaged in obtuse pretty words in an attempt to sound smart. It was so tedious to read. Dorian, and everyone else for that matter, seemed like an idiot to me for thinking he is saying something of importance.

And for such an interesting premise, I think Oscar Wild played remarkebly little with it.

I DO like the relationship of Dorian and the actress.

Tea_4_thee t1_ito4zse wrote on October 25, 2022 at 1:53 AM

I mean I’m pretty sure Henry is supposed to be a horrible person, so it makes sense. I normally love unlikeable characters so this should’ve been right up my ally, but yeah I just could not get into it.

It actually really bothers me cause I can’t quite put my finger on why I didn’t like it, I think it’s the only book I’ve disliked without being able to come up with a reason for that dislike.

RichardWade18 t1_ito222x wrote on October 25, 2022 at 1:32 AM

After reading it though I can see why Wilde was drawn to writing plays and I like his plays better, really. All. that. talking....

Andjhostet t1_itpngex wrote on October 25, 2022 at 12:02 PM

His dialogue is incredible tho

RichardWade18 t1_itpuc09 wrote on October 25, 2022 at 1:02 PM

Oh it is. I like it better in the context of The Importance of Being Earnest, though.

Beiez t1_itosmw5 wrote on October 25, 2022 at 5:22 AM

Same. Especially those pages in which Dorians descent into hedonism is explained in what is one of the longest passages of „tell not show“ I ever read killed all excitement that I had left.

rosecavan t1_itp5x73 wrote on October 25, 2022 at 8:21 AM

This is still my favorite book but man do i agree 100%

JackMcBryde OP t1_itqhmh8 wrote on October 25, 2022 at 3:45 PM

I agree, Henry's philosophy is certainly misogynistic and bitter, but I think that is what Wilde wanted. Dorian's decent begins and is fueled by his relationship with Henry.

The qualities of Henry's character suck. But the part his character plays in the novel drives Dorian's character development.

EfficientAd9765 t1_itqk2ga wrote on October 25, 2022 at 4:01 PM

I'm not saying it's bad that he is portrayed the way he is. But the fact that anyone can take him even remotely serious is ridiculous to me.

He is the type of guy to answer a yes-no question with another question, not being able to have a normal conversation to save his life.

The fact that Dorian builds his whole persona around him is aggrevating. He isn't even the only one who praises him for it. I just wish someone would call him out for his shit.