“It was a bright cold day in April and the clocks were striking thirteen.” – The infamous first line of 1984, a dystopian novella focusing on complete control of a nation by an ominous ruler, Big Brother.

Anyone that even slightly knows me, knows how obsessed with George Orwell I am. Obsessed with a capital O(rwell). Incidentally, this blog was created so I didn’t have to recommend 1984 to everyone I met. It was inevitable that I was going to review this sooner or later, so let’s do it sooner.

The plot:

Imagine being watched at every moment; imagine seeing a leader’s face wherever you go; imagine your history and language being controlled. This is the life that Winston Smith, the protagonist of 1984, lives. Winston works in the Ministry of Truth, where we see him illegally buy a diary, starting this downward spiral of rebellion against the Party.

This downward spiral is fuelled by a forbidden love with a colleague, Julia, and the Brotherhood, a very secretive revolutionary group, and a mysterious character, O’Brien – I’m not telling you any more. You will just have to see for yourself.

“We must remember that this piece of literature is one of fiction”

Forbidden romance, oppression and betrayal in this deeply affecting novella. Published in 1949 about the future, we must remember that this piece of literature is one of fiction.

‘Big Brother is watching you’ and fear of Room 101 controls every aspect of people’s lives. 1984 is beautifully written and incudes controversial themes which are present in our society. Mass control, government surveillance, freedom and justice all embedded to really make you think.

Bookmark That. You won’t regret it, I promise.

Liked this review? Got any other recommendations for me? Send me an email on contact@bookmarkthat.co.uk.

1984, George Orwell, RRP £8.99 (paperback), Waterstones.