1984 was published in 1949 and was written by George Orwell (the pen-name of Eric Arthur Blair). The book is set in a background in which the world is largely controlled by three major powers, Eurasia, East Asia and Oceania who are all at perpetual war with one another, regularly changing their alliances. However the book is mainly set in London, which is referred to as “the chief city of Airstrip One”, Airstrip One being formerly called England. The book focuses on the restrictive thought control operated by the government of Airstrip One, known as “The Party” and the subordination of individuals to the state. The book is thought provoking and arguably particularly interesting given the levels of surveillance modern citizens are subjected to.

Winston Smith works for the Outer Party, the middle section of Oceanic society, in the Ministry of Truth- the department responsible for “correcting” the books and media created in the past. However Winston is more intelligent than most of the inhabitants of Airstrip One and has very negative views of The Party, and records them in his notebook. He meets a young woman called Julia, who also holds negative opinions of the state and they fall in love with each other. However, The Party does not tolerate their thoughts and actions…

Eric Arthur Blair was born in India in 1903, but moved back to England with his family in 1907. After a mixed career, he went to Spain to fight on the side of the republicans in 1936. During the Second World War he served in the home guard, as he was declared unfit for military service. His two most famous books, Animal Farm and 1984 were published in 1945 and 1949 respectively, yet Blair died in January 1950.

From the very first line this book is wonderfully alien to readers “It was a bright cold day in April, and the clocks were striking thirteen” The entire book is thought provoking in the extreme, as the world of Airstrip One is so different from our own. The level of social control that the government holds is so strong that children will gladly inform the authorities of the parents are taking any actions against the state.
As well as the unusual setting, the story behind Winston and Julia’s anti-state activities is very gripping, as the danger of their actions creates plenty of suspense.

The book is well worth a read, whether you are interested in politics or not just because Orwell’s imagination is so impressive. Do you agree? Use the polling widget in the top right hand corner to express your opinion, or feel free to use our book forum to share your views with other readers.