Category: Natsuko’s Blog

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Exploring the Calm: A 60-Day Meditation Journey

Recently, I decided to give meditation another try. The main reason? I was curious about its effects. I’ll be honest—meditation has always been a challenge for me. Actually, this is the second time I’ve tried this project. It’s tough to sit still in one spot without doing something productive. For instance, I can’t just watch a movie; I must take notes and analyze the plot to enjoy it.

Despite knowing some benefits of meditation, I’ve been reluctant to dedicate time to it. This time, I’ve committed to a 30-day trial of consistent meditation, followed by 30 days of analyzing my experiences—a total of 60 days.

Contrary to my feelings toward meditation, meditation offers numerous benefits for the mind and body. According to Sharma (2015), it helps mentally and physiologically by lowering cortisol levels. Cortisol is known as the stress hormone, and high levels can lead to various adult health issues. Meditation also boosts blood flow to brain areas involved in cognitive processes and emotion regulation (Jumah & Dossani, 2024). I put some of the benefits I found from the Journal written by Sharma:

Mental Benefits: Stress deduction, Decreased Anxiety, Decreased  Depression, Reduction in Pain, Improved Memory, Increased Efficiency

Physiological Efficiency: blood pressure, Heart rate, lactate, Cortisol, epinephrine, metabolism, breathing pattern, oxygen utilization, carbon dioxide elimination, increased melatonin, dehydroepiandrosterone surface, skin resistance, blood flow to the brain.

When I meditate, my mind tends to race with thoughts, mainly my to-do list. It was so overwhelming at first that I started to meditate right after my morning routine. After my run, I jot down everything I need to do on a few pages of notes, which helps to clear my mind for meditation. I still found meditation to be challenging. I tried to focus on my breathing. Focusing solely on my breathing still didn’t help, so I began visualizing beautiful scenes from places I’ve visited, sometimes even imagining muses dancing in these settings. This has allowed me to keep distracting thoughts at bay for at least 20 minutes.

Over the next 60 days, I plan to learn more about meditation. I don’t know how this journey will unfold or if I’m practicing meditation correctly. But experiencing what it’s like to be in tune with my body is reason enough for me to undertake this project.

 

References

Jumah, F. R., & Dossani, R. H. (2024). Neuroanatomy, Cingulate Cortex. In StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537077/

Sharma, H. (2015). Meditation: Process and effects. Ayu, 36(3), 233–237. https://doi.org/10.4103/0974-8520.182756

 

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Rediscovering Greek Myths: A Journey Through Iliad & Odyssey

The first time I dove into the epic tales of the Iliad & Odyssey, I was just a kid in elementary school. My introduction to these ancient stories came through a children’s version, which toned down the more frightening parts. Back then, I wasn’t sure if I fully grasped the stories’ depths, but it opened a door for me to the fascinating world of Greek mythology.

Years later, as an adult, I decided to revisit Iliad & Odyssey. To my surprise, I realized I had forgotten almost everything about the stories and the various gods and heroes within them. Adding to my challenge, the Japanese way of writing these deities’ names differed from the English pronunciation, making it hard for me to recognize them. Besides a few, I could only remember some of their names.

Reading these epics for the second time was overwhelming. The names of gods were mostly in Roman, and I found myself spending too much time trying to match deities and heroes’ names with those I vaguely remembered. I needed clarification on enjoying the stories. Realizing this, I took a step back to learn more about each deity, which reignited my interest in mythology. The more I discovered, the more curious I became. This curiosity delayed my third attempt to read the Iliad and Odyssey as I wondered if I would actually enjoy them this time.

Reflecting on my journey, I now understand the appeal of this ancient literature. My appreciation for them grew significantly compared to my last reading. I even joked with my husband that Homer must have made many sacrifices to Apollo, which made him chuckle. My adventure through these mythological tales has sparked a new interest in the various demigods of Greek myths. Inspired by this renewed fascination, I plan to dive into Apollodorus’s works next.

This journey through the Iliad and Odyssey, from childhood to adulthood, has been a journey of rediscovery. Not only did I reconnect with the stories and characters that captivated me as a child, but I also deepened my understanding and appreciation for Greek mythology. It’s a reminder that sometimes, revisiting stories from our past can offer new insights and inspiration.

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Diving Deep into Greek Mythology: A Personal Exploration

Over the past six months, I’ve embarked on an incredible journey into Greek mythology. I read bits and pieces of these ancient tales through children’s books as a kid. My parents had a great collection of them, hoping to introduce my sister and me to the wealthy foundations of Western culture and the moral lessons woven within each myth. Those books offered a glimpse into the vast world of gods and heroes. Still, they only provided the outline of their stories, leaving much to the imagination.

Years passed, and my curiosity about Greek mythology reignited. Diving back in, I quickly realized it was like falling down an endless rabbit hole. While reading Hesiod’s “Theogony,” I learned about the gods and their lineage, but how much detail was left unspoken struck me. For example, Hesiod mentions the union of Leto and Zeus, resulting in the birth of Apollo and Artemis. Yet, the intricacies of their arrival into the world remain a mystery.

An interesting aspect I’ve encountered is the influence of the storyteller’s perspective on these myths. Different authors can present the same deity in contrasting lights, such as Hesiod’s and Ovid’s differing interpretations of Athena. This complexity fascinated me and led me to spend months exploring various stories from multiple sources. One critical lesson emerged from this experience: the importance of keeping track of everything I read.

The other day, while taking notes from Hesiod’s “Works and Days,” I was captivated by the ancient Greek approach to farming. Reading “Works and Days” sparked another realization—to truly grasp these myths, I need to delve into the history of ancient Greece itself. A place’s culture and history are deeply intertwined with its mythology. The more I read, the more questions arise, making it clear that this journey has no end.

Despite the complexities and endless questions, my adventure through Greek mythology has been incredibly fulfilling. My weekdays are often busy with various tasks, but I dedicate several hours each weekend to continue this exploration. Greek mythology is profound, offering endless layers and insights that enrich my understanding.

This journey has deepened my appreciation for these ancient stories and emphasized the value of exploring the cultural and historical contexts that shape them. As I venture further into the myths and history of ancient Greece, I’m excited for the discoveries and lessons that await. With its captivating tales and timeless moral lessons, Greek mythology remains a treasure trove of knowledge and inspiration in the tapestry of Western culture.

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Making Peace with Time Changes: A New Routine

Written on March 7, 2024

In my 20s, I always found the days we had to change our clocks for daylight saving time to be some of the most challenging days of the year. Some people said they liked the spring-forward or fall-back changes, but they were equally difficult for me. Unless I moved somewhere like Arizona, where they keep the time the same, I realized I’d have to deal with this uncomfortable shift twice a year, every year. I decided to shake things up and change my routine.

I’ve always been a night owl, but I forced myself to start my days early to get more done. Mondays are the only days I physically go to work, and I dread the commute, mainly because I drive a manual car. Traffic eats into my valuable time. Luckily, my office is only a 15-minute drive from home if I leave early enough to dodge the traffic jams, and my workday starts at 7 am. I decided to use the extra time I saved by working early on improving something in my life.

Then, we moved to Tennessee from Canada, and my routine faced a new challenge. Back in Canada, I’d run after work, but it’s way too hot in Tennessee, especially in the summer. Running in the extreme heat wasn’t appealing, but it still beat the alternative of running in the snow or ice for months. I had to tweak my schedule to fit the local weather patterns.

A survey by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine showed that about 63% of Americans would rather not deal with the time change, and 55% feel tired because of it (John Hopkins, 2023). I noticed in my early 20s that my productivity took a hit right after we changed the time, and my running pace slowed down on the days immediately following the time changes. This issue gets worse every year. It might be due to the time changes throwing off my body’s internal clock.

According to John Hopkin’s blog post, time changes also negatively impact our health. I am not going to discuss the impact in detail here, but if you have time, please read the website.

In response, I began shifting my schedule in my early 30s. This adjustment has worked, allowing me to maintain my natural rhythms despite the time changes. Instead of dreading these days, I’ve found ways to adapt and use them to my advantage. Changing my routine and adjusting to my new environment in Tennessee has helped me cope with the time change and improve my overall productivity and well-being.

 

Reference

7 Things to Know About Daylight Saving Time | Johns Hopkins | Bloomberg School of Public Health. (2023, March 9). https://publichealth.jhu.edu/2023/7-things-to-know-about-daylight-saving-time

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Maximizing Time Alone: A Cleaning Journey While My Partner’s Away

Written on March 23, 2024

My husband will be away, spending quality time with his siblings in the upcoming days—a trip I wished to join if only my schedule permitted. Unfortunately, the timing couldn’t have been more inconvenient. With the completion of consolidation reports, nearing the end of financial audits, and the final touches to our financial statements, my work as the sole accountant for our company has been more demanding than ever. The looming task of handling corporation tax still awaits me. Given these circumstances, taking time off was hardly an option. However, I managed to secure a single day to cherish moments with my husband before his departure.

After confirming my husband’s trip, I strategized to use this period to clean our home thoroughly. Although work obligations spilled into the weekend, I seized the chance for a comprehensive cleanup. My husband’s absence made this task more straightforward, allowing me to dive right into it with my trusted trio: vinegar, baking soda, and citric acid.

Admittedly, I often feel a pang of guilt for not maintaining a cleaner home. While my husband contributes to daily upkeep, my efforts are usually reserved for spot cleaning and tackling the bathroom and kitchen over the weekend. Yet, this often needs to be improved. The desire to clean windows, wallboards, and doors weighed on me, especially considering the recent surge in pollen, which likely invaded every corner of our house.

Determined, I dedicated four hours to an intense cleaning spree, focusing on our showers, bathrooms, kitchen appliances, and sideboards. The result was a significantly tidier home that not only looked better but also made me feel better.

Reflecting on this, I’m reminded of my grandmother’s wisdom. She often said that cleaning could clear one’s mind, which resonated with me deeply during this cleaning endeavor. Indeed, as I navigated through the chores, the clutter of my mind seemed to diminish alongside the physical clutter. This experience underscored the value of finding tranquility and satisfaction in the simplicity of household chores, particularly during solitude. It served as a reminder of the importance of maintaining a clean home and a clear mind, especially amidst the hectic pace of professional responsibilities.

 

While the initial motivation for this cleaning marathon was born out of necessity and the opportunity presented by my husband’s absence, it evolved into a therapeutic exercise that brought clarity and a sense of accomplishment. It’s a gentle reminder that sometimes, in the quiet moments of solitude, we find the space to rejuvenate and realign ourselves, ready to tackle the challenges ahead with a renewed spirit and a cleaner home.

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Navigating Loss and Love: The Journey of a Beloved Cat

Mar 26, 2024

Re: The Quest for Future Kitty: Navigating the Rarity of Flame Point Siamese Cats

Life, with all its ups and downs, often brings us to a place of deep reflection and emotional growth. My journey, particularly recently, has been one of love, loss, and the bittersweet memories in between. The loss of our beloved cat last autumn has cast a long shadow over our lives, reminding us of the fragility of joy and the enduring nature of love.

Nearly 17 years ago, faced with the impossibility of having children due to medical reasons, I decided to welcome a kitten into our lives. This wasn’t just any kitten; she was a flame-point, apple-head Siamese, a breed marked by its rarity and distinct beauty. However, it was later revealed that she was a mix, a detail that mattered little in our affection for her. My husband, in particular, formed an inseparable bond with her from the moment they met, showering her with love and attention in a way that was uniquely his. While I may not have pampered her to the same extent, my love for her was no less profound.

The pain of loss has a peculiar way of warping my senses, leading me to find traces of our departed loved ones in the most mundane occurrences. At times, I could swear I heard her, a sentiment fueled more by hope than reality, as the rational part of me recognized the sounds as nothing more than the whirring of the heater or the rustling of the wind. Despite my fear of horror films and ghosts, there were moments I desperately wished to believe that she had returned to us in some form.

The void left by her absence has been difficult to navigate. The thought of welcoming another cat into our home has surfaced, prompted by my husband’s desire for a new feline companion. Yet, the thought alone brings tears to my eyes as the memories of our lost cat remain too fresh, her presence too profoundly intertwined with our daily lives. It’s a hesitation born not from a lack of love for animals but from a heart still heavy with grief.

The depth of my husband’s affection for our cat was made abundantly clear in a moment of profound vulnerability. Emerging from a seven-day coma induced by a brain stroke, his first words were not only my name but also that of our beloved cat. It was a testament to their bond, forged through countless days spent together while he worked from home and she kept him company.

As we contemplate the future and the possibility of opening our hearts to another cat, we face practical considerations, such as choosing a hypoallergenic breed due to allergies within our circle of friends and family. Yet, the emotional readiness for such a step is a question that lingers. The fear of inadvertently seeking out the shadow of our lost cat in a new one looms large, raising ethical and emotional concerns about fairness to the latest addition.

Navigating this landscape of grief and love is a journey without a clear roadmap. Each step forward is a delicate balance between honoring the past and being open to new sources of joy and companionship. In this space of uncertainty, the only certainty is the profound impact of our beloved cat on our lives, a legacy of love that endures beyond her physical presence.

 

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Unraveling the Complex Tapestry of Greek and Roman Mythology

Have you ever dived into the fascinating world of Greek and Roman mythology? It’s like stepping into a new realm where gods and goddesses rule and epic tales unfold. I’ve been engrossed in these ancient stories for a project I’m working on, and let me tell you, it’s been quite the adventure! However, one major hurdle has been understanding these mythical characters in depth. It’s like they’re playing a game of hide and seek with me!

Authors who write books usually sketch their characters’ traits and behaviors beforehand. This helps keep the characters consistent throughout the story. I thought, “Why not apply this to the gods and goddesses of mythology?” So, I set out to reverse-engineer their character profiles. Sounds simple, right? Well, not exactly.

Take Athena, the goddess of wisdom and warfare, for example. I always pictured her as the epitome of order and justice. But then, there’s the story of Medusa, who Athena punished after being wronged by Poseidon in her temple. This act of punishment seemed more vengeful than just, and it didn’t align with the Athena I knew from other stories, like Homer’s “Iliad” or “Odyssey.”

Confused, I discussed this with my husband, who pointed out that the version I was puzzled by was actually a Roman take on Athena, known as Minerva, written by Ovid. That’s when it hit me—mythology is not just about storytelling; political and historical contexts also influence it. These narratives could change depending on the author’s perspective or the message they wanted to convey.

Realizing this, I decided to approach my project differently. I would delve back into the myths, paying close attention to who wrote each version and the historical or political background behind the stories. This reminded me of a book I read a while back about pirates. The author highlighted how history could be viewed differently depending on who’s telling it. A knited pirate in England could be seen as a villain from the Spanish perspective.

Throughout this journey, I’ve been organizing my research with Zotero, a handy tool for managing references. However, I didn’t do this with my mythology project for some reason, and now I regret it. A structured way to compare the different versions of each myth, alongside the authors and their backgrounds, would have made my task much more accessible. It’s a lesson learned for sure.

Here’s my takeaway for anyone venturing into the complex world of mythology: keep an open mind and consider the context. These ancient stories are more than just tales of gods and heroes; they reflect the times and cultures they originated from. And remember, a little organization can go a long way in unraveling the mysteries of the past!

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Exploring the Delicious World of Nanbanzuke: A Japanese Delight with European Roots

RE: A Culinary Saturday: Embracing the Bustle with Love and Food

My husband wrote about Nanbanzuke, and now I want to write a blog about it.

Nanbanzuke, a dish celebrated in my hometown in the southern regions of Japan, carries a rich history that traces back to the Muromachi Period (1336AD-1392AD). Though it’s widely believed that the concept of Nanbanzuke arrived in Japan from Spain or Portugal around the 15th to 16th centuries, its essence has been deeply rooted in Japanese culinary tradition ever since. Initially inspired by Escabeche, a European dish of marinated fish or meat cooked in an acidic sauce with spices, Nanbanzuke has evolved to suit the Japanese palate.

The term ‘Nanban’ referred to Europeans during that era, highlighting the influence of European technology and culinary practices in Japan, particularly in Kyushu Island. Japanese adaptations of European dishes, like Nanbanzuke, reflect cultural integration and showcase local innovation in culinary arts.

Nanbanzuke, especially popular in the hot and humid summers of my small hometown, is cherished for its ability to prolong the shelf life of food, thanks to the vinegar in its marinade. While the local favorite is Chicken Nanbanzuke, I prefer using salmon, offering a delightful twist to this traditional dish.

Here’s how to create Salmon Nanbanzuke, a dish that marries the robust flavors of Japan with the zesty charm of European cuisine:

 

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Ingredients:

Salmon (1 lb)

1 carrot

1 bell pepper

½ red onion (sweet or yellow onions are also suitable)

1 TBSP olive oil

2 TBSP cornstarch (adjustable to preference)

2 TBSP potato flour (adjustable to preference)

Seasoning of choice (e.g., Slap Ya Mama)

 

For the Pickled Sauce:

1 Cup Dashi (Japanese soup stock, available at oriental stores)

2 TBSP Soy Sauce

3 TBSP sugar (adjust according to taste; I use a bit more than my parents did. Brian likes a bit sweeter)

½ tsp salt

Sliced dry Japanese chili for an extra kick

 

Preparation Steps:

Prep the Salmon: Cut the salmon fillet into bite-sized pieces for easy eating.

Coat the Salmon: In a bag, combine 1 TBSP olive oil, cornstarch, and potato flour. Add the salmon pieces and shake well to coat evenly.

Cook the Salmon: Though traditionally fried, use an air fryer at 400°F for about 10 minutes for a healthier option. This method ensures a crispy finish with less oil.

Prepare the Vegetables: Shred the carrot, bell pepper, and red onion, which allows the vegetables to blend seamlessly with the pickled sauce.

Simmer the Sauce: Bring the pickled sauce ingredients to a boil in a pot, ensuring the sugar dissolves completely.

Combine and Marinate: Layer the cooked salmon and vegetables in a glass container and pour the hot sauce over them. Seal and refrigerate.

Serve Chilled: The flavors of Nanbanzuke intensify overnight. It’s best enjoyed the next day and can last for a few days when refrigerated.

Salmon Nanbanzuke is a testament to the beautiful blend of cultures and the versatility of Japanese cuisine. This dish pays homage to its European roots and celebrates the unique adaptation that makes it distinctly Japanese. Whether you’re a fan of traditional recipes or enjoy experimenting with flavors, this dish will surely delight your palate and introduce you to a world where culinary traditions merge seamlessly.

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From Packed Shelves to Digital Reads: My Ever-Evolving Book Journey

Every year, right after my birthday, I go through a little ritual: sorting out my books. Why right after my birthday? Well, because my loved ones know how much I adore books, I often get many of them as birthday presents.

When I think back to my younger days, especially my 20s, my love for reading was undeniable. There was this particular interest I had in books from North America. I was curious! I wanted to understand more about the people here, their way of life, and their traditions. So, each time I was getting ready for a business trip, I packed 3 to 5 books in my suitcase. It was my way of taking a piece of this newfound love with me wherever I went.

During my childhood, books were a common sight in my surroundings. Our house resembled a mini-library, with bookshelves occupying almost every nook and cranny. This love for books was not just limited to my home; even my paternal relatives had an abundance of books in their house, ranging from storage rooms stacked with books to proper libraries. It appeared as if my family had an insatiable appetite for books.

However, during a big move from Ontario to British Columbia, I finally realized the enormity of my book collection. The number of books I owned was mind-blowing. I even got a unique bookshelf for an 8×5 room to accommodate them. But seeing them all, I knew it was time for a change. I needed to declutter. It wasn’t an easy decision, but I gave away 45 boxes of books. I only kept those that I really loved and revisited often. And even though it felt good to free up space, giving away my books was bittersweet. There’s something magical about the touch and smell of an actual book.

To make reading more convenient, I transitioned to digital books. My first e-reader was a Sony, but I later switched to a Kindle Fire. With this device, I could have hundreds of books with me all the time, all in one place. A bonus was that my Kindle connected to my Goodreads account. Sometimes, I’d even get free books from there! Plus, whenever I stumbled upon a word I didn’t know, I could quickly check its meaning with the built-in dictionary.

When I later moved from Oregon to Tennessee, I was secretly glad I’d reduced my physical book collection. Trust me, relocating is way easier without heavy boxes of books. Now, a fun fact about my husband: while he didn’t own as many books as his parents, he valued and loved them just as much. I remember the shock on his face when he saw me giving away so many books. But over time, he understood my reasons. Both of us love books; even today, we buy them or get them as gifts. But we’ve made it a point to check our collection regularly. We give away the ones we believe might find a better home elsewhere. It is sharing the joy of reading.

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Diving into Darkness: A Reflection on Oscar Wilde’s ‘The Picture of Dorian Gray

For my fourth book in the Dark Academia reading list, I chose “The Picture of Dorian Gray” by Oscar Wilde. I decided on this book because Wilde’s name popped up in “Maurice,” which I had just finished. I had heard of Oscar Wilde before, but this was my first time diving into one of his books.

Before I start a new book, I like to learn about the author. It helps me understand their stories better.

Oscar Wilde was a fascinating person. He was a writer from Ireland who lived in the late 1800s, known for his unique writing style and vibrant personality. Wilde loved beauty and art, often dressing in fancy clothes and living a flashy lifestyle.

Wilde wrote some great plays, like “The Importance of Being Earnest,” “An Ideal Husband,” and “Lady Windermere’s Fan,” which are loved for their smart jokes, commentary on society during the Victorian period, and exploration of topics like marriage and social class.

However, Wilde’s life was sad when his relationship with Lord Alfred Douglas, Bosie, became public. When Bosie’s dad accused Wilde of being gay, Wilde took him to court, but the plan backfired, and Wilde was arrested instead.

Wilde was sentenced to two years of hard work and imprisoned from 1895 to 1897, when his health worsened. After his release, he lived in France but struggled with money and emotions.

Despite all this, Oscar Wilde’s work and personal life make him a significant figure in literary history. His writing continues to be praised for its cleverness, commentary on society, and artistic greatness.

Now, onto the book “The Picture of Dorian Gray.” It’s about a young man named Dorian Gray, who is incredibly handsome. The story starts when Dorian meets an artist named Basil Hallward, who is amazed by Dorian’s beauty and paints a portrait of him.

Influenced by Basil’s admiration and the cynical ideas of Lord Henry Wotton, Dorian wishes to stay young forever while his portrait grows old and shows his wrongdoings. This wish surprisingly comes true.

Following Lord Henry’s ideas, Dorian leads a life of pleasure and wrongdoings. Despite his increasingly wrong actions, Dorian keeps his outward beauty and charm, while his portrait becomes scarier as it reflects his wicked deeds.

As time passes, Dorian involves himself in various bad situations, harming others without consequences. His portrait becomes more and more hideous each day, reflecting his wrongdoings.

Terrified of his ugly portrait, Dorian tries to destroy it, but this ultimately leads to his downfall. In anger and guilt, he stabs the portrait, which causes his death, revealing an old, withered Dorian Gray.

“The Picture of Dorian Gray” is full of symbolism, suggesting that Wilde wanted to show the good and bad in everyone. Dorian starts as a pure character, but Lord Henry’s influence leads him to do wrong. Lord Henry symbolizes temptation and encourages Dorian to live a life of pleasure, representing the “bad” side.

On the other hand, Basil symbolizes morality and ethics. He appreciates the real beauty in Dorian and continues to care for him despite his wrong actions. Thus, Basil represents the “good” side. This idea of duality is central to the book, and Wilde suggests that every person has both good and bad in them.

The murder of Basil is a crucial turning point for Dorian, marking the moment when Dorian fully gives in to his darker impulses. By killing Basil, Dorian eliminates the possibility of turning back and fully embraces his sinful lifestyle.

However, in the end, Dorian’s remorse and self-destruction suggest that the struggle between good and evil continues within him until his last moments. This could indicate that Wilde believed in the chance of saying sorry and fixing mistakes, although it was too late for Dorian.

In conclusion, “The Picture of Dorian Gray” warns about the results of moral decay. The book shows how doing wrong can lead to a person’s downfall, as demonstrated by Dorian’s ultimate end. The ethical decisions of each character push the story forward and reveal Wilde’s views on the hypocrisy of Victorian society, the consequences of beauty over morals, and the need for a balance between being morally right and seeking pleasure.

The book in question is a short story. As an individual for whom English is not my first language, I found certain words quite challenging, which necessitated multiple checks with the dictionary to ensure an accurate understanding of the content. Also, I noticed that some paragraphs were exceptionally long.

Regardless, I found the book to be thoroughly enjoyable. It made me think, and I suspect it will stay with me for a long time. I appreciate books like this one that stimulate deep reflection. I was intrigued by elements of Jacobean tragedies that influenced the plot. As such, I’m excited to explore some actual Jacobean tragedies in the future.
As anticipated, the book has a dark tone. However, it offers a valuable opportunity to consider the moral compass of its characters and even our own.

My decision to delve into this book was inspired by its captivating plot and my desire to push the boundaries of my English comprehension and expand my literary experiences. The book’s ability to provoke profound thoughts and intense emotions makes it compelling. It invites readers to ponder the concepts of morality, enriching our intellectual journey. Without a doubt, this book is an intriguing choice.

I recommend this book to anyone looking for a story that challenges the mind and sparks curiosity. Dive into it and let it broaden your literary landscape as it has done for me. Trust me, and it’s a journey well worth embarking upon.