Poems, with The Ballad of Reading Gaol

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

1057

Title

Poems, with The Ballad of Reading Gaol

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

A collection of Oscar Wilde's finest poetry, featuring the complete volume of 1881, the 1894 volume 'The Sphinx', the 1898 'Ballad of Reading Gaol', and the 1878 'Ravenna'. This edition also includes two newly discovered poems, 'Désespoir' and 'Pan', offering a comprehensive look at Wilde's lyrical genius, political passion, and deep engagement with classical and contemporary themes.

Summary up to 500 words

This volume assembles the major poetic works of Oscar Wilde, tracing his evolution from the playful aestheticism of his youth to the profound moral urgency of his later years. The collection opens with *Poems* (1881), a diverse array of lyrics exploring liberty, love, and art. It features famous pieces such as 'The Burden of Itys,' a tender elegy for a child, and the war poem 'Ave Imperatrix,' which vividly depicts the brutal realities of British imperial expansion in India and Afghanistan. The volume also includes 'The Sphinx' (1894), a collection of translations and original pieces reflecting Wilde's fascination with Greek mythology and the Nietzschean concept of the death of the gods. The centerpiece of the book is 'The Ballad of Reading Gaol' (1898), a powerful narrative poem written after Wilde's imprisonment. This work condemns the brutality of the penal system and explores themes of sin, redemption, and the shared humanity of the criminal and the judge, marking a significant shift in Wilde's voice toward sorrow and social critique. Additionally, 'Ravenna' (1878) offers a series of impressionistic poems inspired by the Italian city, blending historical reflection with personal emotion. Throughout the collection, Wilde's voice shifts from the witty, decorative style of the Aesthetic Movement to a more serious engagement with politics, war, and personal suffering. The book serves as a testament to his versatility as a poet, capturing the ideals of his era while confronting harsh realities. It stands as a significant literary achievement, showcasing the evolution of one of the most celebrated figures in English literature.

LLM editorial rating

4.8/5

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Categories

• Poetry
• Prisons