“Your rank and wealth, Harry; my brains, such as they are—my art, whatever it may be worth; Dorian Gray’s good looks—we shall all suffer for what the gods have given us, suffer terribly.”
Quote Analysis
In this quote from Oscar Wilde's novel "The Picture of Dorian Gray," Lord Henry reflects on the jealousies and consequences that manifest from the traits and gifts bestowed upon individuals by fate or divine intervention. This quote highlights the idea that one's privileges and talents can lead to suffering, a theme that resonates throughout the novel. Lord Henry expresses that he, Harry, and Dorian will all face consequences for their respective advantages, suggesting that no one is immune to the repercussions of their inherent qualities. This quote illustrates Wilde's exploration of the complexities of beauty, wealth, and intelligence, and the potential drawbacks that come with them.
Relevance of Oscar Wilde's Quote in Modern Society:
In Oscar Wilde's novel, "The Picture of Dorian Gray," the character Lord Henry speaks these words to highlight the concept of a Faustian bargain, where individuals pay a price for their talents, beauty, or wealth. This quote resonates in modern society as individuals often grapple with the consequences of their privileges and blessings.
In the age of social media and influencer culture, people are constantly seeking validation through their looks, wealth, or status. However, Wilde's words serve as a reminder that these gifts can also be burdens, leading to suffering and consequences. It emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, humility, and gratitude in the face of privilege.
Oscar Wilde on the Price of Talent
“Your rank and wealth, Harry; my brains, such as they are—my art, whatever it may be worth; Dorian Gray’s good looks—we shall all suffer for what the gods have given us, suffer terribly.” - Oscar Wilde
Reflection Questions
In this quote from Oscar Wilde's "The Picture of Dorian Gray," the character Lord Henry reflects on the potential consequences of their respective attributes. Think about the following questions as you ponder on the themes of beauty, talent, and wealth:
- How do you think each of the characters in the quote defines their own worth and the suffering they anticipate because of it?
- Can you identify any ways in which their attributes have already caused suffering in the story?
- How does this quote reflect on society's values and expectations regarding beauty, intelligence, and wealth?
- Do you agree with Lord Henry's sentiment that their attributes will lead to suffering? Why or why not?
- How does this quote make you reflect on your own values and beliefs about success and happiness?
Similar quotes
“The ugly and stupid have the best of it in this world. They can sit at their ease and gape at the play. If they know nothing of victory, they are at least spared the knowledge of defeat. They live as we all should live-- undisturbed, indifferent, and without disquiet. They never bring ruin upon others, nor ever receive it from alien hands. Your rank and wealth, Henry; my brains, such as they are-- my art, whatever it may be worth; Dorian Gray's good looks-- we shall all suffer for what the gods have given us, suffer terribly.”
“we shall all suffer for what the gods have given us, suffer terribly.”
“But we all suffer. For we all prize and love; and in this present existence of ours, prizing and loving yield suffering. Love in our world is suffering love. Some do not suffer much, though, for they do not love much. Suffering is for the loving. This, said Jesus, is the command of the Holy One: "You shall love your neighbor as yourself." In commanding us to love, God invites us to suffer.”
“God will judge us, Mr. Harris, by--by what we did to relieve the suffering of our fellow human beings. I don't think God cares what doctrine we embrace.”
“God never sends suffering. Never. It is never "God's will" that we should suffer. God would like us not to suffer. But since the world brings suffering, and since God refuses to use His almighty power and treat us as foolish children, He aligns Himself with us, goes into Auschwitz with us, is devastated by 9/11 with us, and draws us with Him through it all into fulfillment. This is a high price to pay for our human freedom, but it is worth it. To be mere automatons for whom God arranges the world to cause us no suffering would mean we never have a self. We could not make choices.”