This Wallpaper Is Killing Me; One of Us Must Go

Oscar Wilde

“This wallpaper is killing me; one of us must go.”

Oscar Wilde, known for his wit and sharp observations, reportedly uttered these words on his deathbed. The story surrounding this quote offers a fascinating glimpse into Wilde’s final days, and it raises questions about its authenticity. Did Wilde actually make this remark, or has it become one of those tales that grow with time?

The Context of Wilde’s Final Days

In the late 19th century, Oscar Wilde‘s life took a dramatic turn. Once a celebrated playwright and poet, Wilde faced imprisonment, public scandal, and financial ruin. By the time he reached the Hotel d’Alsace in Paris, he was a shadow of his former self. The hotel room, with its distasteful wallpaper, stood in stark contrast to his previous life of luxury and aesthetic refinement.

The wallpaper anecdote, whether true or embellished, captures the essence of Wilde’s characteristic humor. It highlights his ability to find irony even in dire circumstances. The story, however, has varied in its retelling. Some versions present it simply: “Either this wallpaper goes or I do.” Others dramatize it as a duel: “My wallpaper and I are fighting a duel to the death. One of us must go.” Each version maintains Wilde’s flair for drama and wit.

Tracing the Origins of the Quote

The earliest documented reference to Wilde’s wallpaper remark appeared in 1929. A French publication, “L’Européen,” featured an article by Léon Guillot de Saix, which included memories of Wilde. Claire de Pratz, a contemporary of Wilde, claimed to have heard him make the remark. Her account described Wilde’s room with its “modern-style” wallpaper as a source of torment.

Additionally, Lady Gregory’s journals provide independent corroboration. In an entry dated 1928, she referenced a story shared by William Butler Yeats. He relayed a tale of Wilde’s suffering and his declaration that “one of us had to go,” referring to the wallpaper. This adds weight to the authenticity of the anecdote.

The Impact of Wilde’s Aesthetic Legacy

While Wilde’s wallpaper story gained traction, his influence on aesthetic taste persisted. Anna de Brémont, in her 1911 memoir, noted Wilde’s impact on American home decoration. She credited him with transforming the aesthetic sensibilities of the masses, promoting beauty in everyday life. Wilde’s advocacy for art and beauty, despite personal ridicule, left a lasting legacy.

By the mid-20th century, Wilde’s quip had entered popular culture. Newspapers and biographical works referenced it, cementing its place in literary folklore. Hesketh Pearson’s 1962 biography vividly depicted Wilde’s final suffering, including the wallpaper anecdote.

Recommended Reading & Resources

For further exploration of Oscar Wilde and related topics, here are some excellent resources:

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Conclusion: Myth or Reality?

After examining available evidence, it seems plausible that Oscar Wilde did make some version of the wallpaper remark. The consistency across various accounts and the timing of these reports lend credibility to the story. Whether uttered in jest or genuine frustration, the remark encapsulates Wilde’s enduring wit.

Ultimately, the wallpaper anecdote serves as a testament to Wilde’s ability to find humor in adversity. It reminds us of his lasting influence on both literature and aesthetic appreciation, ensuring that his legacy endures. As with many tales of literary giants, the truth may lie somewhere between fact and embellishment, yet it continues to captivate and inspire.

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