God knows; I won't be an Oxford don anyhow. I'll be a poet, a writer, a dramatist. Somehow or other I'll be famous, and if not famous, I'll be notorious. Or perhaps I'll lead the life of pleasure for a time and then-who knows?-rest and do nothing. What does Plato say is the highest end that man can attain here below? To sit down and contemplate the good. Perhaps that will be the end of me too.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Wilde declares his intention to pursue artistic fame or notoriety, questioning Plato's ideal of contemplative goodness as life's highest goal.
- In plain terms
- He wants to be a poet or famous, not just contemplate the good.
- What can you take from it?
- Consider whether personal ambition or philosophical contemplation defines a fulfilled life.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What is the highest end for you?
- Can fame and contemplation coexist?
Another view
Wilde's self‑assessment may be boastful rather than reflective.
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