Oscar Wilde book summaries

“The only way to get rid of a temptation is to yield to it.”

Lord Henry says this to Dorian early in the novel, articulating his hedonistic philosophy.

“I am too fond of reading books to care to write them.”

Lord Henry makes this witty remark during a conversation about art and literature.

“You will always be fond of me. I represent to you all the sins you never had the courage to commit.”

Lord Henry says this to Dorian, highlighting their relationship and Dorian's corruption.

“The books that the world calls immoral are books that show the world its own shame.”

Dorian says this to Basil, defending the yellow book and his lifestyle.

“I have grown to love secrecy. It seems to be the one thing that can make modern life mysterious or marvellous to us.”

Dorian reflects on his hidden life and the secret of the portrait.