It is better to have a permanent income than to be fascinating

It is better to have a permanent income than to be fascinating

Oscar Wilde, the renowned Irish playwright, poet, and author, was known for his wit, charm, and extravagant lifestyle. He was a man who lived life to the fullest, indulging in all the pleasures that wealth and fame could offer. However, despite his love for luxury and extravagance, Wilde understood the importance of having a stable and permanent income.

In his famous novel, "The Picture of Dorian Gray," Wilde explores the consequences of living a life solely focused on being fascinating and seeking pleasure. The protagonist, Dorian Gray, is a young man who becomes obsessed with his own beauty and youth, leading him down a path of moral decay and destruction. Dorian's pursuit of pleasure and fascination ultimately leads to his downfall, as he becomes consumed by his own vanity and selfish desires.

Wilde himself experienced the highs and lows of fame and fortune, facing public scrutiny and scandal that ultimately led to his downfall. Despite his undeniable charm and charisma, Wilde understood that a permanent income was essential for stability and security. In a letter to a friend, he wrote, "It is better to have a permanent income than to be fascinating." This statement reflects Wilde's recognition of the importance of financial security and stability in a world that can be unpredictable and unforgiving.

While Wilde certainly enjoyed the attention and admiration that came with being fascinating, he also understood the value of having a steady income to support himself and his loved ones. In a society that often values wealth and status above all else, Wilde's words serve as a reminder that true happiness and fulfillment come from within, rather than from external sources.