I noticed that comparison as well. there seems to be a bit of cat and mouse going on, much like in the importance of being earnest

yeah. i was also observing james' diction and syntax. every sentence is very elaborate, but has excellent flow like wilde's.

i know there must be a better way of describing it, but i can't put my finger on it. and i'm not sure what it's connotation to its time is.

In my experience this style of writing is just common to the period, especially in writing about society, that sort of banter.

right right. the social commentary slash satire? i lurvee it. it's so witty hahah but i must say i think wilde is much more clever. you?