The Picture of Dorian Gray #7

1.)“If you really want to console me, teach me rather to forget what has happened, or to see it from a proper artistic point of view” (113).

Everything happens for a reason. What happens is not always good, but it always teaches a lesson. Dorian lost the only girl he loved, the girl he was engaged to marry. Her death was a tragedy and all tragedies are sad and painful to remember. Everyone wants to forget heartbreaking events; however, it is not always easy, possible, or the best option. Forgetting does not solve anything. We cannot erase the past; we must accept it and use it to our advantage. What happened with Sybil was an experience. All experiences are learning experiences. Life is like an ongoing experiment. If Dorian applies what he learned from Sybil, he will not make the same mistake again. If he forgets her and how badly he treated her, he will treat someone else the same way.

2.)“I have always you to look at. If you wish the best work I have ever done to be hidden from the world, I am satisfied. Your friendship is dearer to me than any fame or reputation” (117).

Is friendship more important than fame, fortune, and a good reputation? Basil showed it is; a good friend is encouraging and helpful. Dorian was selfish and vane. He forced his only true friend to give up everything for him. Basil’s masterpiece would never be shown to the public because Dorian feared other’s seeing his ugly soul. Dorian would never be a good friend or a good person. He used Basil to his own advantage. Basil provided Dorian with an amazing gift. His face would stay young and beautiful forever, while a hidden painting would show his sins. Instead of thanking him, he begged him not to show it. Basil wanted to be a good friend by making Dorian happy, but what makes someone happy is not always best for them. If no one saw Dorian’s sins, he could engage in every pleasure without worrying: “Basil could have saved him. But it was too late now” (122). Dorian appears beautiful, but his soul is hideous. He will be dying on the inside forever.

Vocab. Words:

1.)Reticences: The state or quality of being reluctant; unwillingness
“The painter’s absurd fits of jealousy, his wild devotion, his extravagant panegyrics, his curious reticences- he understood them all now, and he felt sorry” (120).

2.) Petulantly: moved to or showing sudden, impatient irritation, esp. over some trifling annoyance
“‘No, no!’ he cried, petulantly” (122).