Collected Poems of Oscar Wilde

This collection showcases Oscar Wilde's poetic achievements, featuring poignant elegies, explorations of forbidden desires, and his final work, The Ballad of Reading Gaol, reflecting his profound experiences and emotions.

Collected Poems of Oscar Wilde showcases the extensive range of Wilde's poetic achievements, revealing a more intimate side of the renowned playwright and public figure. This edition features poignant works, including a haunting elegy dedicated to his young sister and a moving lyric mourning the loss of his father. Through these early poems, readers are invited to connect with Wilde's personal experiences and emotions, setting the stage for a deeper understanding of his artistry.

Wilde's poetry also delves into complex themes such as forbidden desires and the interplay between spirituality and love. His exploration of a romantic relationship with Rome is particularly striking, reflecting a tension that ultimately resolves in a renewed appreciation for the ideals of ancient Greece. The collection pays tribute to the theatrical stars and poets of his time, while also capturing the vibrant essence of city life through impressionistic imagery.

The final piece in this collection, The Ballad of Reading Gaol, stands as a powerful testament to Wilde's prison experience, conveying a message of empathy and compassion for all. This work encapsulates the emotional and ethical depth of Wilde's poetry, making it a fitting conclusion to the collection. Published to mark the centenary of Wilde's death in 2000, this edition, complete with an introduction, notes, and bibliography by Anne Varty, invites readers to appreciate the full spectrum of Wilde's poetic legacy.