1984 Author: George Orwell Average Rating: Last Reviewed On: July 31, 2003 (by Scott) Scott's Review: on July 31, 2003 In 1949 Orwell attempted to take communism to its logical conclusion, and ended up with "The Party" as portrayed in 1984. In many ways this book is still relevant. While we haven't reached the state envisioned in the book, it's very chilling to think how close we might be. The book's main character, Winston, sees through the propaganda of the Party, partly because he helps to create it, and looks for a better world. Ultimately, the book ends on a sad note, but the road it takes there is a very haunting one. It touches on the dangers of group hysteria, and even psychological issues. Even though the political issues are very well laid out in the book, I felt they were a bit too simple minded. Perhaps that was part of the point though. In the end, it's a dark commentary on what can happen to a society when the individuals give up their freedoms and let group mentality take over. -- Scott and Michelle |