Meeting Oscar Wilde

While strolling in Merrion Square Park in Dublin, Ireland in May, 2008, I came upon a figure of a man reclining on a granite boulder. Approaching a little closer, I realized it was a sculpture of Oscar Fingal O'Flahertie Wills Wilde, better known as Oscar Wilde.
(My photos - click all to enlarge to see detail)

Oscar Wilde (October 16, 1854 – November 20, 1900) was an Irish playwright, novelist, poet, and author of short stories. Known for his biting wit, he became one of the most successful playwrights of late Victorian London, and one of the greatest celebrities of his day. Several of his plays continue to be widely performed, especially "The Importance of Being Earnest."

This remarkably life like sculpture was commissioned by the Guinness Ireland Group, and sculpted by artist Danny Osborne. It was unveiled on October 28, 1997.

The True Knowledge
by Oscar Wilde

Thou knowest all; I seek in vain
What lands to till or sow with seed—
The land is black with briar and weed,
Nor cares for falling tears or rain.
Thou knowest all; I sit and wait
With blinded eyes and hands that fail,
Till the last lifting of the veil
And the first opening of the gate.
Thou knowest all; I cannot see.
I trust I shall not live in vain,
I know that we shall meet again
In some divine eternity.