“There is no such thing as a moral or an immoral book. Books are well written, or badly written.”
- October 16, 1854 – November 30, 1900
- Irish
- Author, poet, playwright
- Written novels, plays, and poems such as “The Picture of Dorian Gray,” “The Importance of Being Earnest,” and “Salome,” he had a great influence on British literature in the late 19th century through his witty social criticism and humor.
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Quote
“There is no such thing as a moral or an immoral book. Books are well written, or badly written.”
Explanation
In this quote, Oscar Wilde challenges the common view that books can be morally categorized as either good or bad based on their content. Instead, Wilde argues that the true measure of a book lies not in its moral message, but in its quality of writing—whether it is well written or badly written. For Wilde, the value of a book should be judged based on its artistic merits, such as its style, language, and creativity, rather than whether it conforms to a particular moral standard or promotes a specific ethical agenda.
This perspective reflects Wilde’s broader belief in the autonomy of art and his commitment to art for art’s sake. He often argued that art should not be held to the standards of social morality or used as a tool for propaganda, but rather should be free to explore the full range of human experience, including the complexities and darker aspects of life. Wilde’s view aligns with his advocacy for individual freedom in art and expression, where the focus is on the quality and craftsmanship of the work itself, not its ability to preach or conform to societal norms.
In modern contexts, this quote resonates with ongoing discussions about the role of art and literature in society. It challenges the tendency to judge books based on their message or moral stance, reminding us that art—including literature—should be appreciated for its aesthetic and intellectual qualities. Wilde’s words encourage us to evaluate books based on their literary value, rather than imposing moral or ethical judgments that may limit their artistic freedom and expression.
