
Transcribed from the 1920 Methuen edition of Art and Decoration by David Price, email ccx074@pglaf.lorg
OSCAR WILDE—SHORTER PROSE PIECES - PHRASES AND PHILOSOPHIES FOR THE USE OF THE YOUNG
MRS. LANGTRY AS HESTER GRAZEBROOK
SLAVES OF FASHION
WOMAN’S DRESS
MORE RADICAL IDEAS UPON DRESS REFORM
COSTUME
THE AMERICAN INVASION
SERMONS IN STONES AT BLOOMSBURY
L’ENVOI
A sparkling assortment of brief essays, dialogues and sharp observations, this volume captures the restless brilliance of a mind that delights in turning conventions on their head. In a single breath the author offers paradoxical maxims—suggesting that the first duty in life is to be as artificial as possible, that pleasure alone justifies existence, and that sincerity often bows to style. The pieces swing between playful wit and a keen eye for the absurdities of society, making the familiar feel freshly provocative.
Interwoven with theatrical sketches and vivid character studies, the collection showcases a talent for rendering social critique through sparkling repartee and elegant phrasing. Readers will find themselves drawn into a world where art, philosophy, and everyday banter collide, prompting both laughter and a moment’s pause to reconsider accepted truths. Ideal for listeners who enjoy clever turns of phrase and a dash of elegant irreverence, the work invites a leisurely yet stimulating auditory experience.
Language
en
Duration
~1 hours (69K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Release date
2000-02-01
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1854–1900
Known for sparkling wit and sharp social comedy, this Irish writer brought elegance, satire, and mischief to the stage and page. His work still feels fresh for the way it pokes at manners, vanity, and the gap between appearances and truth.
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by Oscar Wilde

by Oscar Wilde

by Oscar Wilde

by Oscar Wilde

by Oscar Wilde