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In continuing my ‘Interviews with Historical Figures’ series, I had the distinct pleasure of sitting down for a one-on-one interview with one of my favorite writers of all time: the immortal Irish playwright, poet and wit - Oscar Wilde. I like to think of myself as a bit of a sharp wordsmith, so I was looking forward to going toe-to-toe with one of the greatest of all time. Unfortunately, things didn’t work out exactly the way I expected.
Brendan: Right off the bat, I am going to gush a little bit. I hope you don’t mind. I’ve got to say - you are a true inspiration to me. Your work has been a huge influence on my writing and - I dare say - my life. Your sharp intellect and clever use of humor cuts through to the greater truths at the heart of humanity. It is simply breathtaking. It is a true honor to be speaking with you.
Wilde: Thanks.
Brendan: (laughs) We are off to a raucous start. That is very funny.
Wilde: What is?
Brendan: Just that… I just gave you a long, glowing introduction and you responded with a terse, disinterested ‘thanks.’ I assumed it was yet another example of using brevity for comic effect?
Wilde: Nope. I was just saying thanks.
Brendan: Oh. Okay. If you don’t mind, I’d like to start with The Picture of Dorian Grey. Talk about a classic. This work has spoken to generations and has become part of the essential canon of literature in the English language. When you first sat down to write Dorian Grey, what were the initial embers that eventually led to your creative fire?
Wilde: I don’t really remember.
Brendan: You don’t remember?
Wilde: I don’t know, man. I just sort of… made it up.
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