"I never travel without my diary. One should always have something sensational to read in the train"

Oscar Wilde’s witty observation about never traveling without his diary offers a playful glimpse into his philosophy on self-reflection, vanity, and the nature of art and literature. By suggesting that one should always have something sensational to read on a train, specifically, one’s own diary, Wilde blurs the line between self-indulgence and intellect. The statement balances humor and irony, gently mocking the idea that our own experiences are the most fascinating stories we can encounter. Rather than seeking entertainment in the works of others, Wilde sees his personal reflections as sufficiently dramatic and intriguing, elevating the mundane act of journal-keeping to an art form worthy of an audience, even if that audience is only the author himself.

This perspective subtly critiques both the conventions of polite society and the literary expectations of his day. Diaries, traditionally vessels for private thoughts and confessions, are here treated as works of art, they become “sensational” reading material. Wilde’s use of the word “sensational” signals his delight in extravagance, wit, and the unexpected. There is an undercurrent of self-parody in his words; he recognizes the absurdity of adoring one’s own musings and yet revels in it. For Wilde, to record life is not only to document events but to transform them with style and wit, thereby making even routine experiences remarkable.

Moreover, the quote reflects Wilde’s exploration of identity and self-perception. Reading one’s own diary becomes a mirror held up to the self, revealing both the depth and performance involved in daily life. Traveling with a diary is more than a logistical choice, it is an acknowledgment of the value of the self as a creator, observer, and even entertainer. Wilde’s playful attitude invites readers to consider the artistry in their own lives and to never underestimate the intrigue that can be found within one’s own story.