Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Oscar Wilde's fairy tales, brought to life by the legendary voice of Basil Rathbone. This captivating spoken word album, released on May 8, 2011, under the Emkay Remasters label, features three timeless stories that have captivated audiences for generations. With a total duration of 43 minutes, this collection is a treasure trove of literary delight.
Basil Rathbone, renowned for his distinctive voice and dramatic prowess, masterfully narrates "The Happy Prince," "The Selfish Giant," and "The Nightingale and the Rose." Each tale is a testament to Wilde's unique storytelling genius, filled with profound themes and whimsical charm. Rathbone's performance breathes new life into these classic narratives, making them accessible and engaging for both longtime fans and newcomers to Wilde's work.
"The Happy Prince," the longest of the three tales, clocks in at just under 21 minutes, followed by "The Selfish Giant" at approximately 9 minutes, and "The Nightingale and the Rose" at around 13 minutes. Rathbone's ability to convey the essence of each character and the depth of Wilde's prose is truly remarkable, making this album a standout in the spoken word genre.
Originally recorded in 1955 by Caedmon, this remastered edition ensures that the audio quality is crisp and clear, allowing the listener to fully appreciate the nuances of Rathbone's performance. Whether you're a fan of classic literature, a lover of spoken word, or simply looking for a captivating way to spend 43 minutes, this album is sure to enchant and inspire.