"Everyone knows The Picture of Dorian Gray, but few know that "Dorian Gray" actually existed. This is his story. In this biography, Jerusha Hull McCormack, noted expert on Oscar Wilde and his circle, tells the story of John Gray, a working-class boy who had a passionate friendship with Oscar Wilde and became known as the reputed model for the character of Dorian Gray. McCormack traces Gray's life from decadent poet to Roman Catholic priest, exploring his changing relationship with Wilde and with his lifelong companion, Andre Raffalovich. Gray's life provides us with fascinating insight into fin-de-siecle literary society and the emerging gay culture of the period."--BOOK JACKET.