A review by bookdragon7
1984, by George Orwell
challenging
dark
reflective
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.75
So here's the thing:
This is a brilliant book...and I also didn't particularly enjoy reading it. It's immensely thought-provoking and is of the type that I think one should read. The political analysis and commentary will leave you reconsidering the world, both now and in the past. There is certainly a reason why this book is so well-known and widely referenced.
However, I found the writing style very confusing (I was looking up words every other page) and the frequent time jumps left me rereading passages. There is something to say about Orwell intentionally using this unclear style on purpose to emphasize his messaging, but it still made for a slow read (for me).
I think I'll be coming back in a few months or years to reread this with a new perspective.
This is a brilliant book...and I also didn't particularly enjoy reading it. It's immensely thought-provoking and is of the type that I think one should read. The political analysis and commentary will leave you reconsidering the world, both now and in the past. There is certainly a reason why this book is so well-known and widely referenced.
However, I found the writing style very confusing (I was looking up words every other page) and the frequent time jumps left me rereading passages. There is something to say about Orwell intentionally using this unclear style on purpose to emphasize his messaging, but it still made for a slow read (for me).
I think I'll be coming back in a few months or years to reread this with a new perspective.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Violence, Physical abuse, and Torture
Moderate: Alcohol and Sexual content
Minor: Rape