Intentions

Oscar Wilde's exploration of aestheticism unfolds through four thought-provoking essays. "The Decay of Lying" advocates for the independence of art from reality, while "Pen, Pencil and Poison" delves into the life of the artist and murderer Thomas Griffiths Wainewright. "The Critic as Artist" redefines the critic's importance in the artistic process, and "The Truth of Masks" emphasizes the significance of external appearances alongside internal truths for artists. Together, these essays articulate Wilde's philosophy on the interplay between art and life.