Collects some of Wilde's critical writings, which reveal his thoughts on literature, philosophy, society, and art, and includes such works as The Portrait of Mr. W. H., In Defense of Dorian Gray, and reviews. Includes The Portrait of Mr W H, Wilde's defence of Dorian Gray, reviews, and the writings from Intentions (1891): The Decay of Lying, Pen, Pencil, Poison, and The Critic as Artist. This volume presents Wilde as a deep and serious reader of literature and philosophy, and an eloquent thinker about society and art. Introduction vii Note on the Texts xxviii Eight Reviews (1885-90) Mr Whistler's Ten o'Clock 3(3) The Relation of Dress to Art 6(3) A Sentimental Journey through Literature 9(3) Mr Pater's Imaginary Portraits 12(3) [The Actor as Critic] 15(2) Poetical Socialists 17(3) Mr Swinburne's Last Volume 20(4) Mr Pater's Last Volume 24(7) The Portrait of Mr W. H. (expanded version 1889) 31(72) In Defence of Dorian Gray (1890-91) 103(22) The Soul of Man under Socialism (1891) 125(180) Intentions (1891) The Decay of Lying 163(30) Pen, Pencil and Poison 193(20) The Critic as Artist -- Part I 213(30) The Critic as Artist -- Part II 243(37) The Truth of Masks 280(25) Notes 305(74) Further Reading 379