Becoming George Orwell: Life and Letters, Legend and Legacy

George Orwell is the most influential writer who ever lived, according to John Roddens book about the transformation of a man into a myth. He explores how the author of Animal Farm and Nineteen Eighty-Four came to be overshadowed by the spectral figure associated with nightmare visions of our possible futures. The book examines Orwell's life and letters, his literary achievements, and his legend and legacy, addressing both his enduring relevance to contemporary issues and the multiple ironies of his popular reputation.

Format: Hardback
Length: 384 pages
Publication date: 04 February 2020
Publisher: Princeton University Press

George Orwell, a journeyman writer, has undergone a remarkable transformation into a towering icon. John Roddens provocative book delves into the transformation of a man into a myth. While Orwell may not be considered the most distinguished man of letters or the leading novelist of his generation, his influence since his death at midcentury is unparalleled. No other writer has stirred such controversy or contributed so many incessantly quoted words and phrases to our cultural lexicon, including "Big Brother," "doublethink," "thoughtcrime," and "Newspeak."

Becoming George Orwell is a groundbreaking exploration that charts the astonishing journey of a litterateur into a legend. Rodden presents Orwell in a new light, exploring how the man and writer Orwell, born Eric Arthur Blair, became overshadowed by the spectral figure associated with nightmare visions of our possible futures. The book begins with a discussion of Orwells life and letters, chronicling his eccentricities and emotional struggles. The second half delves into the legend and legacy of Orwell, known as "Englands Prose Laureate." Rodden examines various aspects of Orwell's influence, from cyberwarfare to "fake news." The closing chapters address both Orwell's enduring relevance to contemporary issues and the multiple ironies of his popular reputation, showing how he and his work have become confused with the very dreads and diseases that he fought against throughout his life.

In conclusion, George Orwell's transformation from journeyman writer to towering icon is a testament to his immense literary influence. John Roddens book provides a captivating exploration of Orwell's life, letters, and legacy, shedding light on the complexities of his character and his enduring impact on culture. Orwell's words and phrases have become part of our collective consciousness, shaping our understanding of society and society. His legacy continues to inspire and challenge us, reminding us of the importance of critical thinking, freedom of expression, and the fight against oppression and tyranny.

Weight: 600g
Dimension: 222 x 134 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780691182742