The Ballad of Reading Gaol

The Ballad of Reading Gaol is a poem written by Oscar Wilde and first published in 1897.

In this long poem, Wilde reflects on his experiences and observations during his incarceration in Reading Gaol and the brutality of the penal system of his time.

With moving and poignant lyricism, Wilde explores themes of injustice, loneliness, and human suffering. He makes a profound social critique, empathizing with the marginalized and reflecting on redemption and forgiveness.

"I. He did not wear his scarlet coat, For blood and wine are red, And blood and wine were on his hands When they found him with the dead, The poor dead woman whom he loved, And murdered in her bed. He walked amongst the Trial Men In a suit of shabby grey; A cricket cap was on his head, And his step seemed light and gay; But I never saw a man who looked So wistfully at the day."