Oscar Wilde, Volume 2 (of 2) - His Life and Confessions by Frank Harris
page 61 of 288 (21%)
page 61 of 288 (21%)
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Reading Gaol.'" It was manifestly a direct outcome of his prison
experiences. The letter was simple and affecting; but it had little or no influence on the English conscience. The Home Secretary was about to reform (!) the prison system by appointing more inspectors. Oscar Wilde pointed out that inspectors could do nothing but see that the regulations were carried out. He took up the position that it was the regulations which needed reform. His plea was irrefutable in its moderation and simplicity: but it was beyond the comprehension of an English Home Secretary apparently, for all the abuses pointed out by Oscar Wilde still flourish. I can't help giving some extracts from this memorable indictment: memorable for its reserve and sanity and complete absence of any bitterness: "... The prisoner who has been allowed the smallest privilege dreads the arrival of the inspectors. And on the day of any prison inspection the prison officials are more than usually brutal to the prisoners. Their object is, of course, to show the splendid discipline they maintain. "The necessary reforms are very simple. They concern the needs of the body and the needs of the mind of each unfortunate prisoner. "With regard to the first, there are three permanent punishments authorised by law in English prisons: "1. Hunger. "2. Insomnia. "3. Disease. |
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