A
talented English painter named Basil Hallward wants to live his life by
expressing his artistic passions. An example of this is when he makes a
portrait of one of his fellow friends named Dorian Gray. Basil is unsure if he should
exhibit his work at a museum but at the end of the day, he plans on doing so
and Dorian disapproves. During this portrait's existence, Dorian's attitude
seems to change very slowly by becoming a narcissist and acting very vain. What
will happen to Dorian?
I
honestly really didn't like this book. At first glance, this book doesn't even
look appealing at all to bookworms. The colors on the cover look so dull and
Basil's portrait doesn't seem to look very nice. The only time I liked this
story is when there is a touch of horror, particularly regarding a certain
grizzly scene. This is a book containing a classic as a genre and it has
philosophy in it. If people were to understand the philosophy behind it, as
well as some of the words & phrases in the old English language, then why
not give this book a check out? I think this is a novel that would generally
suit an adult in their 40s or 50s because some of the topics can be
controversial and sensitive such as when they talk about how women are people
who get taken advantage of and they are not treated right. As for myself, I
wouldn't want to read something like this until I’m older and have a better
understanding of the philosophy explored here.
Hannah R., Grade 9
Downtown Central Library
