A 139-year-old letter by Oscar Wilde has resurfaced, revealing the playwright’s rather sharp disdain for vegetarians.
Far from a polite critique, Wilde’s words are colorful, dramatic, and, in typical Wilde fashion, unapologetically witty.
In it, he warns of the “dangers of a diet of green herbs” and suggests that certain vegetables could turn people bloodthirsty.
Brussels Sprouts and the Bloodthirsty Theory
Wilde had strong opinions about meatless diets.
He claimed that “Brussels sprouts make people bloodthirsty” and went even further, arguing that those who consume lentils and artichokes are inclined to call for the “severed heads of Kings.”
He famously remarked, “The most violent republicans I know are all vegetarians,” blending humor with hyperbole in a way only Wilde could.
A Letter to Fellow Writer Violet Fane
Penned on November 12, 1887, the letter was addressed to Violet Fane, the pen name of writer Mary Montgomerie Lamb.
Across four pages, Wilde shared his literary ideas, offering topic suggestions and expressing his opinions on vegetarianism.
He even linked the meatless lifestyle to philosophical and political movements, claiming it had curious connections to “modern socialism, atheism, nihilism, anarchy, and other political creeds.”
The Auction and Wilde’s Legacy
The letter is now up for auction at Bonhams in Knightsbridge, London, with an estimated value between £8,000 and £12,000.
It comes from the collection of Jeremy Mason, an Oriental antiques dealer who has spent 60 years amassing hundreds of Wilde-related artifacts.
Other highlights in the sale include an 1882 portrait of Wilde in flamboyant attire by New York photographer Sarony, along with various letters and first editions.
Wilde’s Personal Life and Career
Wilde, famed for The Picture of Dorian Gray and The Importance of Being Earnest, led a life marked by brilliance and controversy.
After being jailed for gross indecency related to his homosexual relationships, he spent two years in prison between 1895 and 1897.
His health suffered greatly, and he passed away in 1900 at the age of 46.
Global Interest in the Sale
Matthew Haley, Bonhams’ head of fine books and manuscripts, noted that vegetarianism was far less common in the 19th century than it is today, making Wilde’s opinions all the more remarkable.
“The letter reveals that although we do not think of Wilde as conservative, he was remarkably traditional in his food preferences,” Haley added.
The auction, which has already drawn international attention, is set for February 18.
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