Personal Reflection

The Portrait of Dorian Gray is a novel that provokes much thought upon one's own character. Throughout the novel it is difficult to analyze Gray without analyzing yourself in the same manner. Observing his narcissistic actions from a third party perspective makes it very easy to contemplate the possibility of some resemblance to myself. I am certain I do not share the same conceited qualities as Dorian Gray, however I have noticed that I share some of Gray's opinions on hedonism. Unlike Gray though, I would refuse to allow a book to dominate or rewrite my own personal doctrine, so I would not consider my thoughts upon the subject matter changed. This does not go to say that reading the novel has done nothing for me. As with reading any good work of classical prose, reading this novel has broadened my vocabulary and experience with literature. The more classic writings I read, the more I am able to grasp the plot and the subtle symbolic references that appear so much in this manner of writing.  Unfortunately, I learned that real focus is nearly impossible for me with topics that I do not consider interesting. I find it very easy to think about something interesting, even more so than the task at hand. Many times throughout the novel I was forced to set it down because I was not engaged enough to read it properly. I regret having my ponderings become more important than my studies, but it is true about me sometimes. Overall, I am glad I chose this novel. I appreciate the self analysis that the book provoked, and I recommend for anyone to read The Portrait of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde as well.