The first duty in life is to be as artificial as possible. What the second duty is no one has yet discovered

The first duty in life is to be as artificial as possible. What the second duty is no one has yet discovered

Oscar Wilde, the renowned Irish playwright, poet, and author, was known for his wit, humor, and unconventional views on life and society. One of his most famous quotes, "The first duty in life is to be as artificial as possible. What the second duty is no one has yet discovered," encapsulates Wilde's belief in the importance of embracing artifice and individuality in a world that often values conformity and mediocrity.

Wilde's assertion that the first duty in life is to be as artificial as possible may seem paradoxical at first glance. However, when viewed through the lens of Wilde's own life and works, it becomes clear that he was advocating for the rejection of societal norms and expectations in favor of embracing one's true self. Wilde believed that authenticity and self-expression were paramount, even if it meant being perceived as artificial or unconventional by others.

In Wilde's eyes, artifice was not a negative trait, but rather a means of asserting one's individuality and creativity in a world that sought to stifle such qualities. By encouraging people to be as artificial as possible, Wilde was urging them to break free from the constraints of societal expectations and embrace their unique identities and talents.

Wilde's emphasis on artifice also speaks to his belief in the transformative power of art and beauty. As a playwright and poet, Wilde understood the importance of aesthetics and the role they play in shaping our perceptions of the world. By encouraging people to be as artificial as possible, Wilde was advocating for the creation of beauty and art in all aspects of life, from personal relationships to societal structures.

As for the second duty that Wilde alludes to, the mystery remains unsolved. Perhaps Wilde believed that once individuals had embraced their artifice and authenticity, they would be free to discover their own unique path and purpose in life. Or perhaps he believed that the second duty was unknowable, a mystery waiting to be unraveled by each individual in their own time and way.