George Orwell, a literary figure revered by both modern-day liberals and conservatives, continues to captivate readers with his timeless works like “Animal Farm” and “Nineteen Eighty-Four.” His writings touch upon various political themes that resonate with different audiences, showcasing a diverse range of views that spark debate and reflection. To truly grasp Orwell’s beliefs, one must delve into his original words and not rely on contemporary interpretations that may skew his message for personal gain.
In an insightful video presentation by YouTuber Ryan Chapman, viewers are taken on a deep dive into George Orwell’s political ideologies, guided by his introspective reflections on his own career. Chapman initiates the discussion with Orwell’s essay “Why I Write,” where the author candidly admits to being driven by political loyalties in tumultuous times, transforming him from a potential fiction writer into a fervent pamphleteer.
Orwell’s political awakening took place during the Spanish Civil War in 1936, where his journalistic assignment led him to join the fight against Franco, aligning with his pro-working class and anti-authoritarian sentiments. After sustaining a gunshot wound, Orwell shifted his focus to exposing the hypocrisies of the Soviet Union, emphasizing the importance of revealing the truth behind political propaganda.
Through Orwell’s eyes, the manipulation of truth in politics became a central theme in his narratives. He grappled with the concept of objective truth fading away in a world dominated by ideologies that dictate what individuals must think and believe. His cautionary tale in “Nineteen Eighty-Four” serves as a stark reminder of the totalitarian regimes he witnessed, warning against the dangers of suppressed dissent and enforced orthodoxy.
Despite being a critique of foreign governments, Orwell also highlighted the subtle forms of ideological control prevalent in Western societies. He challenged readers to question societal norms and recognize the limitations placed on freedom of thought and expression. Orwell’s legacy serves as a beacon for introspection and critical thinking in an age where truth can be easily distorted for political gain.
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George Orwell Identifies the Main Enemy of the Free Press: It’s the “Intellectual Cowardice” of the Press Itself
George Orwell Explains How “Newspeak” Works, the Official Language of His Totalitarian Dystopia in “1984”
George Orwell Reveals the Role & Responsibility of the Writer “In an Age of State Control”
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Colin Marshall, based in Seoul, writes and broadcasts on cities, language, and culture. His projects include the Substack newsletter Books on Cities, the book The Stateless City: a Walk through 21st-Century Los Angeles, and the video series The City in Cinema. Follow him on Twitter at @colinmarshall or on Facebook.