Chapter 4, An Incomplete Aesthete Summary

Upon returning from his travels late for the start of his Easter term in April 1877, Wilde loses University Demyship support for half a year. In addition, he must follow his tutor's instructions to the letter to be admitted later for his October term. Oscar takes to London, the theater, and art exhibitions. He develops a taste for art criticism, seeing this as a possible career direction, along with writing poetry. He sends out query letters to publishers with little success, although he does make his name known in his immediate world.

Wilde's primary challenge in his fourth year at Oxford is to pass the Schools Examinations, although money problems mar the first part of the year. He spends money lavishly and goes into debt. Meanwhile, Wilde writes poetry that attempts to reveal the split between aesthetic and...