The Picture of Dorian Gray follows the extravagant and unruly lifestyle of one Dorian Gray following his accidental immortality and the arrogant sense of freedom he develops as a result. While the storyline follows Dorian's behavior and the'magic' portrait which takes the punishment for these actions, much of the basis of the novels beauty is found in it's focus on art and the truth behind such things. While Dorian eventually finds himself tormented by the crimes he commits, his fascination with pleasure continues, with him remarking the significance of pleasure and happiness not being two things of the same kind - a belief he is convinced of until the bitter end.
"The artist is the creator of beautiful things" remarks Wilde upon opening his novel; a line which certainly transforms Wilde into not only a writer, but an artist to the merit of Monet. While the character of Dorian undeniably descends into pure ugliness, the writings and thoughts weaved together to create the story are constantly captivating as they explore the themes of morality, freedom and youth.
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