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Dorian Quote by Oscar Wilde

“I turned halfway round, and saw Dorian Gray for the first time. When our eyes met, I felt that I was growing pale. A curious sensation of terror came over me. I knew that I had come face to face with someone whose mere personality was so fascinating that, if I allowed it do so, it would absorb my…” quote by Oscar Wilde
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““I turned halfway round, and saw Dorian Gray for the first time. When our eyes met, I felt that I was growing pale. A curious sensation of terror came over me. I knew that I had come face to face with someone whose mere personality was so fascinating that, if I allowed it do so, it would absorb my whole nature, my whole soul, my very art itself.””

Oscar Wilde

About This Quote

Source Novel: The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde, 1890

The narrator is terrified by Dorian's alluring yet dangerous personality, fearing it could consume his own identity and art.

In simple terms: A captivating person can threaten one's sense of self.

Key Takeaway

Guard your individuality against overwhelming influences.

Themes

identity art danger fascination

Mood

anxious introspective

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • artistic creation
  • personal relationships
  • self‑reflection
  • encounter with charismatic individuals

Key Concepts

psychology selfhood influence

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you protect your core self when drawn to powerful personalities?
  • What boundaries keep your art authentic?
A Different Perspective

The fear may stem from projection rather than Dorian's actual threat.

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