Down and Out in Paris and London

1984 (aussi appelé en anglais Nineteen Eighty-Four) est le plus célèbre roman de George Orwell, publié en 1949. Il décrit une Grande-Bretagne trente ans après une guerre nucléaire entre l'Est et l'Ouest censée avoir eu lieu dans les années 1950 et où s'est instauré un régime de type totalitaire fortement inspiré à la fois de certains éléments du stalinisme et du nazisme1, 2. La liberté d'expression n'existe plus. Toutes les pensées sont minutieusement surveillées et d'immenses affiches sont placardées dans les rues, indiquant à tous que "Big Brother vous regarde" (Big Brother is watching you). 1984 est communément considéré comme une référence du roman d'anticipation, de la dystopie, voire de la science-fiction en général. 1984 a également servi d'inspiration ou de base a de très nombreuses oeuvres tel que V pour Vendetta. La principale figure du roman, Big Brother, est devenue une figure métaphorique du régime policier et totalitaire, de la société de la surveillance, ainsi que de la réduction des libertés.

1984

"1984" by George Orwell is a dystopian masterpiece that paints a chilling vision of a totalitarian future. Set in a world where Big Brother watches your every move, the novel follows Winston Smith, a low-ranking member of the ruling Party who begins to question the oppressive regime. Orwell's portrayal of a surveillance state, thought control, and the erasure of truth is eerily relevant in today's digital age. The novel introduces the concept of "Newspeak, " a language designed to eliminate independent thought. As Winston rebels against the system, he embarks on a dangerous journey for truth and freedom. The story is a harrowing exploration of the consequences of mass surveillance and authoritarianism."1984" is not just a work of fiction; it's a warning about the dangers of sacrificing individual liberties for the illusion of security. It's a thought-provoking, unsettling, and thought-provoking read that remains profoundly relevant in our modern world. ABOUT THE AUTHORGeorge Orwell, the pen name of Eric Arthur Blair, was a renowned English writer and essayist. Born on June 25, 1903, in Motihari, India, he is best known for his literary contributions that challenged totalitarianism and explored the consequences of oppressive government systems. Orwell's early life included experiences as an imperial police officer in Burma, which profoundly influenced his views on British imperialism. His first notable work, "Down and Out in Paris and London", was published in 1933, recounting his experiences among the working class and homeless. However, it was Orwell's dystopian novels that catapulted him to literary fame. "Animal Farm, " published in 1945, is a satirical allegory that critiques the Russian Revolution and the rise of Stalinism. In 1949, he released his magnum opus, "Nineteen Eighty-Four, " which portrayed a nightmarish future under a totalitarian regime, coining terms like "Big Brother" and "thoughtcrime" that have become part of popular culture. Orwell's writing style is marked by its clarity and social commentary. He was a passionate advocate for truth and freedom of expression, which is evident in his essays like "Politics and the English Language."Sadly, Orwell's life was cut short by tuberculosis, and he passed away on January 21, 1950, at the age of 46. His works remain not only literary classics but also influential critiques of authoritarianism and the dangers of propaganda, ensuring his enduring legacy in the world of literature and political thought.

This remarkable book has been described in many ways—as a masterpiece...a fairy story...a brilliant satire...a frightening view of the future.A devastating attack on the pig-headed, gluttonous and avaricious rulers in an imaginary totalitarian state, it illuminates the range of human experience from love to hate, from comedy to tragedy.With an Introduction by C.M. Woodhouse

La ferme des animaux

George Orwell, perhaps one of the most perceptive writers of the twentieth century, wrote extensively about English life and politics. This selection of his essays and journalism brings together his most provocative and insightful writing on England and Englishness. Part of the Macmillan Collector's Library; a series of stunning, clothbound, pocket-sized classics with gold foiled edges and ribbon markers. These beautiful books make perfect gifts or a treat for any book lover. This edition is edited and introduced by Professor Michael Gardiner. Orwell's interests were broad. He often wrote about everyday concerns such as transport, food and the weather. Turning to social issues, he exposed the plight of the poor and the unemployed. He dissected the idea of nationalism and he examined the failings of the Left. What emerges from his acute observation of English rituals, habits and attitudes is his belief that these are the very things with which the English people can defend themselves against oppression. His writing remains insightful and prescient to this day.

Orwell and England - Selected Essays

Nouvelle édition enrichie ! Dans une Angleterre uchronique issue de la Guerre Froide, Winston est un employé ordinaire. Surveillé à chaque instant par des caméras, des espions, des voisins, il travaille à la réécriture de l'Histoire. Il sent confusément que quelque chose ne va pas dans le monde tel qu'il le connaît. Qu'il doit bien exister du sens, quelque part. Un secret. C'est alors qu'il rencontre Julia... Sous la plume de Xavier Coste, l'intemporelle dystopie Orwellienne, plus glaçante que jamais.

Un certain 21 juin eut lieu en Angleterre la révolte des animaux. Les cochons dirigent le nouveau régime. Snowball et Napoléon, cochons en chef, affichent un règlement : "Tout ce qui est sur deux jambes est un ennemi. Tout ce qui est sur quatre jambes ou possède des ailes est un ami. Aucun animal ne portera de vêtements. Aucun animal ne dormira dans un lit. Aucun animal ne boira d'alcool. Aucun animal ne tuera un autre animal. Tous les animaux sont égaux." Le temps passe. La pluie efface les commandements. L'âne, un cynique, arrive encore à déchiffrer : "Tous les animaux sont égaux, mais (il semble que cela ait été rajouté) il y en a qui le sont plus que d'autres."

La Ferme des animaux

Dans une Angleterre uchronique issue de la Guerre Froide, Winston est un employé ordinaire. Surveillé à chaque instant par des caméras, des espions, des voisins, il travaille a` la réécriture de l'Histoire. Il sent confusément que quelque chose ne va pas dans le monde tel qu'il le connaît. Qu'il doit bien exister du sens, quelque part. Un secret. C'est alors qu'il rencontre Julia... Sous la nouvelle traduction de Xavier Coste, l'intemporelle dystopie Orwellienne est plus glaçante que jamais. Dans un bouquet final saisissant, un superbe pop-up donne vie à ce monde désincarné !

Down and Out in Paris and London

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