The Ballad of Reading Gaol

Style and Technique

«The Ballad of Reading Gaol» by Oscar Wilde is a poetic work written in the form of a ballad, which gives it rhythm and musicality. The style of the work is characterized by emotional intensity and drama, allowing the reader to deeply engage with the author's experiences. Wilde uses simple and clear imagery to convey complex feelings and ideas, such as injustice, suffering, and repentance. The language of the ballad is rich in metaphors and symbols, enhancing its expressiveness and depth. Literary devices such as anaphora and alliteration create a rhythmic structure and emphasize key moments in the text. The structure of the work consists of six songs, each developing the theme of human tragedy and moral reflection. Wilde masterfully combines personal experiences with universal questions about life and death, making the ballad not only autobiographical but also philosophical.