Nineteen Eighty-Four

Pessimism, negativity, the belief that humanity in it's struggle for power will eventually destroy itself. Not exactly a state of mind you would strive to achieve. Luckily for us George Orwell has already explored the very depths pessimistic predictions. Even luckier, Orwell decided to compose all his delightfully dark prophecies into one delightfully dark book. 1984.

1984 tells the tale of Winston Smith, a simple citizen of the superpower Oceania. Winston rebels against the all powerful Party and it's leader, Big Brother. This rebellion, entirely philosophical, allows Winston to figure out what he truly believes in, not just delightfully dark Party Ideals.

Well of course the phrase "delightfully dark" is entirely subjective. If you so happen to be a believer in totalaristic Communism, then ignore everything negative I say about 1984. In fact 1984 will fill you with the warm fuzzy feelings not unlike those felt when frolicking in fields of flowers. The utopia you dream of has arrived in literary form. Indulge. On the other hand if you believe in individuality, love, family, and everything else that makes us who we are... well you might find yourself shacking your fist at the sky quite often. But by no means don't read this book. It is a truly is great read for anyone of any beliefs.

What makes 1984 such a great book is the unique ideas that have been incorporated into it. Normally absurd and terrible (again, the Communist should be giddy with joy) principals such as doublethink, newspeak, and thoughtcrime are as easily believable as 2+2=4. But wait? In 1984 2+2=5? It's amazing to think of it. That people can be manipulated to such a great extent is one of the fascinating core principals of 1984.

If I were to rate this book, I would have to say a solid 9 out of 10. It is a fascinating story of the discovery of individuality, and then the destruction of said individuality. Not only does it introduce brilliant new principals it brings up one we don't normally like to face. That utopia, the perfect society, might just be the most totalaristic of states.
-Austin Weng, A2