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- Title: Lady Windermere’s Fan (Version 2)
- Author: Oscar Wilde
- Narrator: Phil Chenevert
- Length: 02:28:41
- Version: Abridged
- Release Date: 01/01/2016
- Publisher: LibriVox
- Genre: Comedy, Satire & Parody
- ISBN13: SABLIB9787683
As someone who thrives at the intersection of literature and digital media, I’m always fascinated by how audiobooks can transform classic texts into immersive experiences. Oscar Wilde’s *Lady Windermere’s Fan (Version 2)*, narrated by Phil Chenevert, is no exception. This LibriVox production offers a fresh auditory take on Wilde’s biting satire of Victorian society, and it’s free—yes, free!—for anyone to enjoy. Let’s break this down and explore why this audiobook deserves a spot in your listening queue.
### **The Book: A Play About a Good Woman**
Wilde’s *Lady Windermere’s Fan* is a masterclass in wit, irony, and social commentary. First performed in 1892, the play delves into the complexities of marriage, reputation, and morality in Victorian England. The story follows Lady Windermere, a young woman who grapples with her husband’s alleged infidelity and the societal expectations that threaten to upend her life. Wilde’s razor-sharp dialogue and clever plot twists make this play both entertaining and thought-provoking.
The central theme—‘We are all in the gutter, but some of us are looking at the stars’—resonates deeply today, reminding us of the tension between societal judgment and individual aspiration. Wilde’s critique of Victorian hypocrisy is as relevant now as it was in the 19th century, making this play a timeless piece of literature.
### **The Audiobook Experience**
Phil Chenevert’s narration brings Wilde’s characters to life with a clarity and warmth that enhances the listening experience. His pacing is impeccable, allowing Wilde’s witty dialogue to shine without feeling rushed. Chenevert’s ability to distinguish between characters through subtle vocal shifts adds depth to the performance, making it easy to follow the play’s intricate social dynamics.
What struck me most about this audiobook is how Chenevert captures the nuances of Wilde’s humor. His delivery of Wilde’s epigrams—those clever, often paradoxical one-liners—feels effortless, drawing out the play’s satirical edge. I found myself smiling at lines like, ‘In this world there are only two tragedies. One is not getting what one wants, and the other is getting it.’
### **Personal Connection**
Listening to *Lady Windermere’s Fan* reminded me of my BookTok series analyzing audiobook adaptations. Just as I explored how the narrator’s voice choices in *The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo* added layers to character complexity, Chenevert’s performance here deepened my understanding of Lady Windermere’s internal conflict. His portrayal of Mrs. Erlynne, in particular, revealed a character who is far more than the ‘fallen woman’ she appears to be.
This audiobook also brought back memories of my podcast episode on *Project Hail Mary*, where I compared different storytelling formats. Like the alien language in *Project Hail Mary*, Chenevert’s narration adds a new dimension to Wilde’s text, making the play’s themes of appearance versus reality even more poignant.
### **Strengths and Limitations**
One of the strengths of this audiobook is its accessibility. As a free LibriVox production, it’s a fantastic entry point for anyone new to Wilde or audiobooks in general. The play’s brevity (just over two hours) makes it a perfect listen for a commute or a lazy afternoon.
However, the audio quality, while decent, doesn’t match the polished production of modern audiobooks. There are occasional background noises and slight inconsistencies in volume, which might distract some listeners. That said, these minor flaws are outweighed by the charm of Chenevert’s performance and the timeless appeal of Wilde’s writing.
### **Recommendations**
If you’re a fan of Wilde’s other works, like *The Importance of Being Earnest* or *An Ideal Husband*, this audiobook is a must-listen. It’s also a great choice for anyone interested in Victorian literature or social satire. For those who enjoy exploring how audio performances can enhance classic texts, Chenevert’s narration offers a delightful case study.
### **Final Thoughts**
*Lady Windermere’s Fan (Version 2)* is more than just a play; it’s a mirror held up to society, reflecting the absurdities of human behavior and the enduring struggle for authenticity. Phil Chenevert’s narration breathes new life into Wilde’s words, making this audiobook a captivating listening experience. Whether you’re a seasoned Wilde enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this free audiobook is well worth your time.
So, grab your headphones, find a cozy spot, and let Wilde’s wit and Chenevert’s voice transport you to the glittering, gossip-filled world of Victorian high society. You might just find yourself looking at the stars.
With audiobook enthusiasm and digital storytelling passion, Sophie Bennett
Sophie Bennett
