Genre: Writing, English Language, Politics, History
This book was no surprise to me when I come to think of George Orwell. In fact it has everything you can ask for from a class Orwellian masterpiece - political intrigue and debate followed by a distinct argument and perspective.
Notably this collection of works by Orwell does this in a more direct way than his fictionalised counterparts. Gone are the use of metaphors and similes and replaced with direct references and assumptions. I do believe, however, that if this had used the former then it would not have been as greater impact.
My only criticism of this collection of essays is the bias and reluctance to consider multiple points of views within the arguments of each essay, and where this has been done they have been ridiculed or put-down.
The essay, 'Politics and the English Language', although fairly wordy offers some insightful and useful techniques for writing; especially his 6 rules for writing, which I would employ every professional and aspiring writer to know and take heed of.
I gave this book four stars because overall I enjoyed reading Orwell's arguments and seeing his perspective, it has made me want to read more from the 'Penguin Books: Great Ideas' collection. More reviews on books like this to come soon, watch this space...
This book was no surprise to me when I come to think of George Orwell. In fact it has everything you can ask for from a class Orwellian masterpiece - political intrigue and debate followed by a distinct argument and perspective.
Notably this collection of works by Orwell does this in a more direct way than his fictionalised counterparts. Gone are the use of metaphors and similes and replaced with direct references and assumptions. I do believe, however, that if this had used the former then it would not have been as greater impact.
My only criticism of this collection of essays is the bias and reluctance to consider multiple points of views within the arguments of each essay, and where this has been done they have been ridiculed or put-down.
The essay, 'Politics and the English Language', although fairly wordy offers some insightful and useful techniques for writing; especially his 6 rules for writing, which I would employ every professional and aspiring writer to know and take heed of.
I gave this book four stars because overall I enjoyed reading Orwell's arguments and seeing his perspective, it has made me want to read more from the 'Penguin Books: Great Ideas' collection. More reviews on books like this to come soon, watch this space...
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