Decay of Lying

Life imitates Art far more than Art imitates Life. Oscar Wilde's writings on aesthetics propose that criticism is the highest form of creation and that lying is the ultimate aim of art.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 144 pages
Publication date: 24 September 2020
Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

Life is a remarkable reflection of art, surpassing the mere imitation of reality. The two remarkable works showcased here, "The Decay of Lying" and "The Critic as Artist," are Oscar Wilde's most witty and profound expressions on aesthetics. In these writings, Wilde proposes a thought-provoking notion: criticism holds the utmost significance as a creative endeavor, surpassing the act of creation itself. Moreover, he suggests that the ultimate goal of art lies in the art of lying, the portrayal of a beautiful untruth.

Published as part of the esteemed Penguin Great Ideas series, this new collection features a diverse range of thinkers who have left an indelible mark on our world. Spanning from anarchists to stoics, feminists to prophets, satirists to Zen Buddhists, these thinkers offer insightful perspectives that have shaped our understanding of the world.

Through his profound insights, Wilde invites us to contemplate the intricate interplay between life and art, challenging our preconceived notions and inspiring us to explore the depths of creativity and truth. These works serve as a testament to Wilde's enduring legacy as a visionary thinker and a master of words, leaving a lasting impact on the literary and philosophical landscape.

Weight: 92g
Dimension: 111 x 179 x 12 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780241472453