The Ballad of Reading Gaol

"The Ballad of Reading Gaol" is a powerful poem written by Oscar Wilde, a renowned writer and playwright. This poem reflects Wilde's contemplation on the topic of capital punishment, which was inspired by his personal experience of being convicted and imprisoned for his relationship with Lord Alfred Douglas. The poem tells the story of a man who is executed for murdering his wife, a witnessing that Wilde himself experienced during his time in prison. This thought-provoking piece was published in 1898, marking Wilde's final published work before his untimely death in 1900 due to cerebral meningitis, which was caused by syphilis. Through this ballad, Wilde offers a poignant reflection on the moral complexities surrounding the death penalty.