Unabridged Audiobook
A superbly acted, amazing compilation of Oscar Wilde works. As these are performed “readings” by highly skilled British actors, some of the works (such as The Picture of Dorian Gray) are not 100% Wilde’s work, word for word; there is some adaptation going on. They’re still wonderful. I perhaps loved hearing his plays the most: Lady Windermere’s Fan, An Ideal Husband and, of course, The Importance of Being Earnest, are the sparkling jewels in the group, performances I will be happy to return to over and over. I am left thinking longest about De Profundis, The Ballad of Reading Gaol, and the good handful of letters that take us through Wilde’s life. The only jarring note was the addition of In Extremis at the end; it’s not Wilde’s work so it’s completely unnecessary. But well acted so worth a listen. I skipped most of it, preferring to end with the heart-rending Ballad that Wilde originally published with his dehumanized prisoner number as author. Everything is so beautifully narrated in this anthology. Oscar Wilde the joyous romantic, witty cynic and tragic victim to a horrifying legal system that catered to vindictive aristocrats springs to memorable life alongside his wonderful, amazing characters. One of the best audiobooks I’ve ever listened to. Pure listening treasure!
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