PODG #6

"There are few of us who have not sometimes wakened before dawn, either after one of those dreamless nights that make us almost enamored of death, or one of those nights of horror and misshapen joy"(Wilde 134).

By using the word "us", Wilde not only incorporates the reader into his story, but also incorporates himself. By doing this, Wilde is putting himself into his art, which has been previously stated to be a taboo. This also shows how genuine the emotions of the characters truly are, as Wilde has obviously felt the same way that they do at some point. Wilde is perhaps speaking on behalf of the others who have experienced the kind of horrors he has, just as he spoke up for those who were gay during his trial. This is an interesting style of writing, although it seems a bit subjective. I wonder if Wilde would be as accurate in descriptions of emotions he had never experienced.

"How exquisite life had once been! How gorgeous in its pomp and decoration! Even to read of the luxury of the dead was wonderful"(140).

Dorian wants the good times back. Whether he truly feels remorse or is merely forcing himself to feel remorse because he thinks that he should is unclear. From what Dorian has revealed himself to be so far, I would wager the latter. Dorian is most likely just bored. The fun is taken out of most thing once your emotions cease to be. Dorian seems to be more interested in the luxurious things than the purpose for such luxury. He wants luxury for the sake of having it, much like he wants remorse for the sake of having it. It is interesting that he envies the dead. After all, Dorian has something in common with those who have died; his body and soul have been separated.