Chapter eleven focuses on the different endeavors that Dorian indulges in. Years have gone by since the novel originally began and the change within Dorian is extremely evident. Dorian also, has become extremely obsessed with that novel that Lord Henry gave him. This novel is just another tool for which Lord Henry can use to indirectly control Dorian, even more than he already does. The dream that Dorian has on page 143 seems to be foreshadowing some horrible even that he will soon have to face. It seems as if Dorian is becoming bored with his lifestyle; he is jumping from one hobby to the next, surrounding himself with beautiful things.
On page 153 it becomes clear that Dorian is driven by fear. He is unable to stay away from London for long periods of time, because he thinks someone might discover his portrait. He even went as far as to have bars placed on the door to the room where the portrait was hidden. Even though he was the only one who possessed a key to enter the room. Those that he associates with are being to notice this change within Dorian and start to regard him with suspicion. They "look at him with cold, searching eyes, as though they were determined to discover his secret."
In chapter twelve it has been eighteen years since the start of the novel and Dorian is being confronted by Basil. Basil comes to talk to him about the rumors that have been circulating around the community about him. It seems as if Dorian has become poisonous to everyone around him. He takes those that are pure and innocent and tarnish their reputation because of his negative influence. There is a bit of irony when Basil states "Mind you, I don't believe these rumors at all. At least I can't believe them when I see you. Sin is a thing that writes itself across a man's face." page 164. The reason this is ironic is due to the fact that Basil is basing his judgment on Dorian's outward appearance when if he could see the portrait, which is the true mirror to his soul, he would have a completely different opinion. The chapter ends with Dorian agreeing to show Basil the portrait; this action could possibly cause tremendous problems in the near future for Dorian.
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