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To lose one parent may be regarded as a misfortune ... to lose both seems like carelessness.

Meaning

Lady Bracknell's deadpan remark in Act I of Wilde's farce mocks social snobbery by treating the loss of parents as a mere lapse. Behind the joke is a reminder not to take parents for granted. Pick up the phone this week and ask your mother how she is really doing.

Source: The Importance of Being Earnest (1895)

Oscar Wilde 5 views

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To lose one parent may be regarded as a misfortune ... to lose both seems like carelessness.

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Oscar Wilde

(1854–1900) was an Irish poet, playwright, and novelist known for his wit, satire, and flamboyant style. His works, including "The Picture of Dorian Gray" and "The Importance of Being Earnest," explore themes of beauty, morality, and social hypocrisy. Wilde’s writing is celebrated for its clever dialogue and sharp observations. Despite personal challenges, his work achieved lasting recognition. Oscar Wilde’s legacy continues to influence literature, theatre, and cultural thought.

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