Lux reviews "The Importance of Being Earnest"

I had always heard of Oscar Wilde throughout my life in vague references and obscure allusions; yet, I had never read any of his plays. In fact, I knew he was a famous English writer, but did not know he was a playwright. I didn't know if he was famous for being queer or a satanist.

Pictured here, Wilde was turned to stone by Medusa after Wilde attempted to insert one of Medusa's head-snake into his rectum. When the opportunity came along to see the movie Wilde (1997) staring Stephen Fry in the title role, I decided to see what all the hubbub was about. I needed a shot of strong vodka after seeing Jude Law bang another dude in his asshole. I enjoyed the movie and feel Wilde got a raw deal by being sent to prison by hypocrites in power.

I have found within myself the ability to enjoy and relish in humorous plays. During my reading of The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde, I found my mind harkening back to those simpler days of yore when network sitcoms were the bread and butter of American entertainment, and cable or satellite were unknown. I am just old enough to remember a network sitcom called Three’s Company (1977) starring John Ritter (Jack), Joyce DeWitt (Janet), Suzanne Summers (Chrissy), and Norman Fell (Mr Roper). The Importance of Being Earnest unearths the memory of Three’s Company and its farcical situations and the unintentional trouble it brings.

When impersonating someone or something else, it is at this moment when characters are at their wittiest and consequently most vulnerable. The most direct example I noticed is the need for incognito. Ernest explains it as Bunburyisting and Company explains this as the need for Jack to pretend he is homosexual so the landlord, Mr Roper, won’t throw Jack out because he lives with two females. There are, of course, many more examples why Wilde is easily understood in modern times. Wilde seems to understand the subtext of life and all its subtle nuances and eccentricities.

Whilst reading The Importance of Being Earnest, I found myself laughing out loud on many occasions. To have the word “wit” defined for me is an abstract concept unless I see or hear wit in action. Wilde’s wit shines through due to his mastery at painting a farcical picture of situational happenstance and highbrow ignobleness. Some favorite quotes that made me laugh audibly are: “More than half of modern culture depends on what one shouldn’t read.” “The amount of women in London who flirt with their own husbands is perfectly scandalous.” “I do not approve of anything that tampers with natural ignorance.” “It is awfully hard work doing nothing.” “No gentleman ever has any money.” “I never saw anybody take so long to dress, with such little result.” And my absolute favorite, “I am not in favor of long engagements. They give people the opportunity of finding out each other’s character before marriage, which I think is never advisable.”

I find I much rather like Wilde’s take on wit and will read more of his plays. I hope they hold my interest as much as The Importance of Being Earnest did as my reading list is growing by the day. Also, I shall keep my eyes open in case this play is ever running in Portland. Wilde is as relevant today as ever - umm, sans the gay stuff. Now I'm not a sentimental cat, but when I am punishing my litter box, I find reading Wilde passes the time.