Nineteen Eighty-Four is one of the most important novels of all time. George Orwell’s classic story is about one man’s quiet rebellion against an oppressive society. Winston Smith is a citizen of Oceania, one of three global superstates engaged in a never-ending war. Oceania is a fascist and totalitarian society ruled by the Party. Big Brother is the enigmatic mustached leader of the Party, and he is watching you. Anything that you say or do that goes against the Party makes you an enemy of the Party. Even the thought itself is a crime.
Winston works at the Ministry of Truth, where he spends his days revising and editing historical records so that they comply with the Party’s version of events. He has no family or friends, just acquaintances in the form of neighbors and coworkers. He passes the time by drinking gin, smoking cigarettes, and trying to hide his hatred for Big Brother. He wants to rebel, but he doesn’t know how. But his life changes when a young woman takes a chance and confesses her love for him. They begin a secret love affair, each one knowing that it’s a death sentence.
This is a very political book. It’s about power and control, oppression and suppression. It was written in 1948 and published in 1949, back when 1984 was still a futuristic fantasy. 1984 came and went almost thirty years ago, but it still seems like it could happen. George Orwell may have a bleak view of the world but that doesn’t mean he’s not right about it. Good literature can change the way you view the world. This novel is proof.
Critically Rated 16/17
Written, Rated, and Reviewed by Brendan H. Young
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