26 - Oscar Wilde and Myself by Lord Alfred Douglas

In Oscar Wilde and Myself, Lord Alfred “Bosie” Douglas presents his first memoir, crafted 14 years after Oscar Wildes death and in the wake of Douglass unsuccessful libel case against Arthur Ransome. Ransomes critical study of Wilde included quotes from the censored parts of Wilde’s prison letter to Douglas, De Profundis, which painted a starkly negative picture of their relationship. Unable to sway a jury in his favor, Douglas instead turns to posterity, aiming to set the record straight. He passionately challenges Wildes portrayal of their shared past, taking aim at Ransome, Wildes confidant Robert Ross, and various biographers, while also critiquing Wildes character and literary contributions. Douglas provocatively concludes that Wildes legacy will fade into obscurity. (Rob Marland)