George Orwell (born Eric Arthur Blair on June 25, 1903, in Motihari, Bihar, British India – died January 21, 1950) was a British writer, journalist, and essayist, widely regarded as one of the most significant literary figures of the 20th century. His works are known for their criticism of totalitarian regimes, social injustice, and the dangers of unchecked political power.
Key Works:
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“1984” (1949) – This dystopian novel presents a totalitarian society under constant surveillance, where individuality and freedom are suppressed. The book introduces iconic terms like “Big Brother,” “Thoughtcrime,” and “Newspeak”, which have become part of the political discourse to describe oppressive regimes.
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“Animal Farm” (1945) – A satirical novella, it allegorizes the rise of Soviet communism and the corruption of socialist ideals. The story of farm animals overthrowing their human oppressors only to end up under a more corrupt and authoritarian rule is a sharp critique of Stalinism.
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“Homage to Catalonia” (1938) – A personal account of Orwell’s experiences during the Spanish Civil War, where he fought against Fascism. The book highlights the internal conflicts and the complexities of political ideology during the war.
Writing Style and Philosophy:
Orwell’s writing is known for its clarity, precision, and directness. He believed in the power of clear and straightforward language to communicate complex ideas, and he often criticized vague and deceptive language used by politicians and bureaucrats. His works often focused on issues like equality, freedom, and social justice. Orwell was deeply concerned with the corrupting nature of power and the manipulation of truth by governments.
His famous essay “Politics and the English Language” (1946) critiques how language can be used as a tool of political control, making complex ideas more difficult to understand in order to deceive the public.
Orwell’s works remain relevant today, especially when addressing concerns about surveillance, censorship, and the loss of individual freedoms under authoritarian governments. His legacy as a writer and social critic endures, with his books continuing to influence and inspire discussions on politics, power, and the human condition.
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