1984

De: George Orwell

Narrado por: Theo Solomon

One of the most celebrated classics of the twentieth century, this cautionary tale of a man trapped under the gaze of an authoritarian state is more relevant now than ever before.

“Thoughtcrime was not a thing that could be concealed for ever. You might dodge successfully for a while, even for years, but sooner or later they were bound to get you.”

Winston Smith works in the Ministry of Truth—or Minitrue as it is called in Newspeak—where he alters newspapers and reports to follow the arbitrary dictates of Big Brother’s propaganda. Beneath his outward conformity, however, Winston dreams of sharing his treasonable thoughts and breaking through the loneliness in which he lives.

Thus he takes his first dangerous steps, writing a diary of his doubts and then falling in love with a woman of the Party, the beautiful and brave Julia. They know their love is doomed, but Julia says, “They can make you say anything—anything—but they can’t make you believe it.”

But in Oceania, there is no possibility of solidarity, rebellion, or love—and the Party can reach anywhere.

First published in 1949, this disturbing novel that George Orwell wrote during a time of great social and political unrest centers on the consequences of totalitarianism, mass surveillance, and repressive regimentation of people and behaviors within society.

This classic of dystopian fiction contributed new words that became part of common English usage, including Big Brother, doublethink, newspeak, and thoughtcrime. The adjective "Orwellian" has come to mean government deception, surveillance, and misleading terminology.

Cover illustration & Design by Derek Anderson and Joel Anderson. © Anderson Design Group, Inc. All rights reserved. Licensed by Anderson Design Group.

©1949 Harcourt Brace and Company. © renewed 1977 by Sonia Brownell Orwell (P)2024 Blackstone Publishing

Somehow still extremely relevant today…

Well read and even better written. Will absolutely read again. Found a copy for 50 cents with thick, luxurious paper at my local library. I’m looking over my shoulder now!

A grim and foreshadowing novel…

Orwell perfectly captured the truth behind how a rebellion against one’s government would fare in a totalitarian nation or power. A sad truth it may be, it serves as something humanity should learn from and not ignore; his work and its message should be taken under consideration, especially when humankind is on the verge of repeating its past ‘mistakes’.

It’s frightening how much of this story has become reality.

Nothing except the fact that it may happen one day unless we’re vigilant. Be alert.

1984

One of the best Books ever Written. The Narrator did an excellent job. Very well done.

so relevant today

wow, this book has me looking at the current times with a new lense. Definitely recommend