Musings on Greenwood

I had read George Orwell’s classic novel 1984 when I was in High School. I didn’t appreciate it at the time.

I remember skimming the pages trying to get through it quickly. I found it boring and somewhat tedious at times.

This weekend, I finished re-reading the book. To my shame, it has taken me this long to truly read, absorb and then reflect on this literary masterpiece.

All I can say is, WOW! Having studied political theory at university, I now fully grasp all the nuances of the book and I completely understand why this book is studied alongside the other seminal works of Western literature.

If you haven’t read it yet, get on it. The book is timeless.

Also, George Orwell himself was a fascinating man. Christopher Hitchens has devoted a considerable amount of time and energy in his life to explaining Orwell’s legacy and defending his accomplishments.

Here’s the first part of a Hitchens lecture on Orwell followed by a Q&A session. As always, Hitchens is brilliant. Enjoy.

Ethan Rabidoux