That book is either on my “read before I die list” or “avoid forever”!! I can’t decide. I was assigned a book report on this one in 11th grade. we all got a diff book. I remember I complained to the teacher because mine was longer and way more boring. She basically called me a spoiled entitled brat in nicer words and gave me a shorter book. I have regretted that ever since!
Read it in high school, hated it. Then again, hated Catcher in the Rye in high school, re-read it this summer and now it is one of my favorite books. I have no interest in re-reading 1984 again.
love, love, love this book. Loved the HULU series just as much. I usually say the book is better. In the cast of Handmaids, I can’t say I like the book better. The TV series and book are equally spectacular.
It’s an excellent book — but if you think it gets dark now, oh, it gets worse, so much worse. But don’t let that stop you! I’ve was this novel at least six times in my life and it’s sooo worth reading!
THAT. What Vicki Graham Allen just said. If I want to hear snide school-children arguing and bickering and calling each other poopy heads, I’ll turn on the news. That’s why I read–and I can make up my OWN mind.
@Vicki exactly. I come here to get away from all the crap. To have it drug in here like dogshit on people’s shoes (when actually it’s in their brains) is appalling.
The whole point of these books is to compare them to what is currently happening. They weren’t written in a bubble and don’t exist is a bubble. Every administration gets compared to dystopian novels. 1984 and HMT happen to be the current ones.
@Debra Agreed. This should be a place where everyone can come together, no matter if you are republican or Democrat, Christian, Buddhist or Atheist. We should be able to discuss the books like mature adults.
anyone who wants to shove their opinions down another’s throat has totally missed the point of most of the literature in this category. Why don’t you create Gilead with your insistence on your own beliefs? How about an Animal Farm? Keep it to yourself.
@Vicki I was not talking about you, Vicki. Sorry I didn’t make that clear. I don’t care what ANYONE thinks, but this site is not a place for people to showcase their disgust with the current admin, any other admin, or compare it to these books. THAT practice is doing exactly what they’re railing against–and that’s typical of those who hate the current.
Then there is no point in discussing the book. It is a political book made to spark political discussion. Perhaps you should find another post to read that better matches your interests.
It’s one thing to discuss, it’s another to force your opinions down someone else’s throat. It depends on how it is phrased, and those who are worst, are (seemingly) completely unaware, wrapped about in their own self-righteousness.
And “perhaps you should find another post” is a classic example. Drive away anyone who doesn’t agree with you. Either force people to conform or drive them away.
Not forcing anyone to do anything. If you don’t want to talk about politics, don’t bother with discussing a political novel. Saying not to bring up politics with 1984 is like saying not to bring up race while discussing To Kill a Mockingbird.
There’s a difference between saying, I’m very concerned with how people are being propagandized and told what to think and saying, Trump is the antiChrist. Which is what these things devolve into (both those are merely examples, both sides of the aisle–all sides, there ARE more than 2) are equally arseholish at times. Also, this is an INTERNATIONAL site, and it’s rude to make them scroll through hundreds of hate-filled posts.
You do have the *choice* not to read comments and to not respond. I roll my eyes and move on all the time. In essence, you can choose to exercise your right to remain silent, just as others choose to exercise their first amendment right to free speech. You choose to be outraged. Not everyone views the world as I do. Not everyone views the world as you do. And most of the world views America through a completely different lens then either of us.
However, it is essential for good people to stand up for civility. The reason we have jerks saying anything they choose is not because we have free speech, it’s because we have no manners.
Sometimes things said that we consider in poor manners and lacking civility are coming from those that have been marginalized and abused by society. Sometimes we need to be made uncomfortable to grow and I think that makes all voices worth listening to. When we have visceral, flash anger, reactions we need to be careful that those reactions aren’t conditioned responses caused by the media we consume.
It’s a sad state of affairs when people can’t civilally discuss politics, especially when discussing a political work of literature. I miss my days back in college when we would stay up all night debating about everything from economic globalism to whether Ross and Rachel were on a break. :sigh
It does not get less dark. If it’s really not working for you I recommend looking up a summary. I believe it is an important book but not one that is enjoyable to read. Don’t beat yourself up. Look up how it ends and move on to something that suits you better.
Given the current political situation, it is a good read. I read it in 9th grade (I am 40+) and read it again in English (my daughter found it in English at a flea market here in France) and in French. It is tough to read but it makes you think. My French husband often says to me, “Big Brother is watching! lol!
It is a hard and dark read. Having said that, I think it’s a work of genius with a lot of insights. But there is never any shame in saying, “I don’t think I can read this just now.” Political, apolitical, bad headaches, hemorrhoids acting up- whatever. No shame in putting it down.
I just picked up a copy. I read it over fifty years ago. I probably didn’t understand it very well then and I’m reading it again because of current events.
Re: Catch 22 – I wonder if you need some level of military background to really understand the book. Or recognize the parts of MASH that weren’t the least bit comedic.
It is not really a “good” story, but worth the read, in my opinion. I never give up on classics. I feel a kinship with the past, the author, and other readers, when reading a stand alone classic.
Does not get better (my opinion) Don’t struggle. Move on to a good book. Books are like vegetables. Be happy eat/read the ones you like and you will feel good.
It is perhaps too close for comfort? i would wade through it. i read it when i was 15 and its principles still are with me, right along with Animal Farm and Brave New World. Eye opening, all of them!
I agree! Those of us in high school and university in the 1960s and into the 1970s read brilliant classics and just released books as well, for the most part without having conservative political challenges trying to delete meaningful books.
Yeah, I wouldn’t be optimistic for any uplifting moments. Like others, I think maybe it is too painful to read these days (Truth is Not Truth, Don’t Believe What You See and Hear, etc.)
I struggled as well. I put it down for like 6 months and then finally came back and finished it, but had kinda forgotten all of what I had read. I got the gist of it, but it’s not my favorite type of read. Good luck to you.
It continues in the same vein, but it’s meant to be edifying, not just entertaining. You’ll never be delighted that you read it, but you’ll be better able to judge current events.
There is a brief moment when you think there might be a light, but then you are plunged deeper in darkness. Almost wishing you hadn’t had that glimmer of hope at all.
I read it in June. It actually gets darker toward the end. As others have suggested I think it is too close to our present time to be enjoyable fiction.
I’m reading it now too. It is a difficult read for the psyche for sure; It gets darker and darker. I’m sticking with it though because I think it’s going to be one of those books that I like more after I finish it and think about it. Heart of Darkness was the same for me.
I also read it in HS, and reread it recently. My view of it changed a bit, especially how I viewed Julia. Reading it through adult eyes makes a great difference.
If you haven’t read it, finish it! I personally thought I’d re read it, but it is just too close to what is happening in the US, today, and I just can’t. The reality we are facing,is far more troubling than the the book.
Vicki Graham Allen, you are certainly entitled to your opinion. That’s what makes our country great, as it always has been. Unfortunately, many of us see the current situation differently than you do and are also free to express our opinions. Thank you, 1st Amendment.
@Vicki You can “not agree” but then you should not be on a thread discussing 1984. Many books we are discussing in GAR are dystopian or political and it is impossible to discuss them without considering our current political environment. 1984 is a dystopian political novel that regardless of your politics has very obvious parallels for what is happening. “Truth is not truth” “Don’t believe what you see or hear” and “alternative facts” could be lifted right from their pages.
I read it in 1984 as a high school senior for English class. I still remember it’s message and certain parts. Read it for your intellect and so you can see the parallels in today’s world. Then when people refer to it you will understand why.
I needed to focus on something else. It hits very close to home with everything going on today and I just could not finish it. I like to read most of the time to get away from the happenings today. It just wasn’t for me right now.
@Angela Understood. It is hard to read in today’s environment. I did last year (third time) and as horrified as I had been on the first and second reading — that was nothing to how I felt this time. 🙁
@Patricia I totally understand. When politics gets in the mix, it’s difficult not to respond. All is well in our little book world, which is truly my escape from the relentless political atmosphere we all must abide.?
I read it in high school along with Animal Farm and again in 1984. It’s a very bleak look at the future. I was very happy that it was not true in 1984 but it is very true now. Maybe that’s why some people have a hard time reading it now. I have the problem with A Handmaiden’s Tale. I read it several years ago and cannot not watch the TV show.
The entire thing is dark because it presupposes a dark state. It’s worth it, though, especially when you start to notice little things in politics that echo points in the book.
I struggled the entire way through. Not because it was poor writing or anything. It’s just 80% anti-fascist / anti-communist propaganda. It’s definitely got a lot to make you think, but it drives that propaganda the entire way through the book. If you want a book with better anti-war ideas, read Catch-22. If you want more updated propaganda, watch the news.
It continues. I did read the whole thing and did not enjoy it.
For any naysayers who come here to dismiss my opinion saying it’s not supposed to to be enjoyable, I did not enjoy the writing style and found the main relationship tedious.
The world was scary and intriguing as it was intended. The actual story… not so much.
I agree with a commenter above, if you cannot continue, a summary should suffice as the themes are very important and maybe you could come back to it later.
I liked The Road compared to 1984. I also enjoyed The Handmaid’s Tale, The Hunger Games, The Divergent series but I just couldn’t finish this one. I also enjoyed reading Animal farm.
I slog through books like this one, breathing deeply and hugging my loved ones. Strange thing, I’ve learned to accept and let go of the dark, I’m aware of it in life, but finishing a book like this one often makes me so grateful for how good I have it.
Or , don’t waste your time with a book your not enjoying . Too many good books out there waiting to be read. If you need closer from this book , I read tossing it across the room can bring closer.
Amanda Smith Hodde Actually — that is not what happened in the book. In the book the government decided what the “media” was — basically what the message was. It aligns much more to things we are hearing now like “Truth is not truth”, and “Alternative Facts”. In fact – one of the most famous quotes was “The party told you to reject the evidence of your eyes and ears. It was their final, most essential command.” Which sounds a lot like “What you’re seeing and what you’re reading is not what’s happening,”
Stays dark and gets a little darker in my opinion. Ended it just recently and I still think about it – wow quite a message. I actually “enjoyed” the experience because it really made me think. But immediately went to Huck Finn to get me out of the funk.
Nope, dark all the way. But PLEASE finish it. It will change how you see things. I was pretty politically/current events aware when I read this in high school. Yet, it was like blinders had been thrown off — and that was pre-internet days! It’s a book that will stay with you. You may not want to ever read it again, but you’ll never forget it and the lessons it teaches.
I read it at least 50 years ago, and I’ve never been able to entirely get over it. It hit me hard back then, and you couldn’t pay me to reread it again ever!
It’s very dark and doesn’t have a happy ending – that’s really pretty much the point of dystopian novels – it’s worth reading for the lesson in how people are convinced and then embrace servility
It’s pretty gloomy. I read it on New Year’s Eve 1985. Why? Because I felt as if I couldn’t end 1984 without having read it! Then? Thought it was a good, cautionary tale that I thought vaguely applied.
Today? I’m thinking I should probably pore through it again. It might seem a bit closer to me now.
I was 14 when I read it first. Then in my 20’s. Then last year (for obvious reasons). As frightened as I was at 14, this last reading was the most horrifying for me (and I’m 58 now).
Dark, darker and darker still as I re-read it in a more modern context – I first read it as a teenager. Worth the effort, although granted not exactly uplifting. I loved it even though I didn’t if you see what I mean.
Julie Mignosa I want to love it the way I loved so many of the musketeer books when I read them decades ago. But after the first third of the book, which was great, it slowed to a crawl so Dumas could milk it for serialization. Too many side plots, too many sub stories, too many scenes of unnecessary dialogue. That was acceptable in serialization 100 years ago but it is torture today. Especially when you consider that these characters are one dimensional and the story is melodrama. I just need it to move quicker or be shorter.
i usually like the books better than the movies, but i must say for TCOMC i really liked the whole take in the Jim Caviezel movie version tons better! And it was nothing like the book.
@Beth I bought them as a set w the intention of reading 1984. I read Animal Farm first, and now that I’ve finished both, I totally preferred Animal Farm.
I struggled with it,too, but not because of the subject matter. I found Orwell’s writing style to be monotonous. I longed for some more dialogue or action.
You HAVE to finish. It’s a timely book with the lawyer for the president stating truth is not truth. And trump stating What you’re seeing and what you’re reading is not what’s happening”
I teach 1984 to my students every year. I recommend you stick with it…it’s a classic for good reason, and very relevant to our times. And, Big Brother wants to watch you finish it!… ?
Would you say it’s better, worse, or about the same as Brave New World? I haven’t read 1984 yet but I did read Brave New World back in high school years ago.
I know how you feel. Orwell just keeps going on and on about how dark it is and drags out the story. I kept shouting “I know your world sucks please get on with it”
It’s worth the read. It is dark, scary, but so relevant to what is going on today. I read it as a teen about 50 years ago, Animal Farm is also a very predictive, forewarning book. Both classics. I’m working my way through Dostoevsky ‘s The Brothers Karamazov. Deep!
The historical context may be a problem. The book corroborates reports from within the Soviet Union (at the time), Yugoslavia, Romania, Albania and the People’s Republic of China (up to today). The idea of three major powers juggling control of the world was and, has proven to be, no fiction. The British actually built ‘ Floating Fortresses’ between the two World Wars so the book puts all the governments involved on notice.
As many have noted this is often required high school reading, and I’ve often wondered why? The first half is the main character having sex the last half is him getting tortured. I wonder if we told parents that are kids were reading about sex and torture what they would say, but in some ways it’s okay because it’s 1984. Classics have a pass sometimes just because they are classics. For me unless you spend tons of time with background knowledge of the political situation at the time and how it relates today it’s just not worth it especially as a topic for study in high school.
When I studied it in high school, we did spend lots of time studying the political situation at the time. To me it’s always worth it getting people to read the classics, that’s what education is about.
I read it in 8th grade English. Kids are already being exposed to drugs and sex in the real world by high school. I think having a frank, guided discussion on uncomfortable subjects is exactly what kids need in high school.
I think it really oversimplifies the book to say the first half is two characters having sex and the second half is torture. This is not 50 Shades of Grey. I’ve read it three times including when I was young and I can honestly say – I never gave the sex scenes a second thought and even with your post I had to really think about it. Neither the sex nor the torture was done gratuitously – they are essential to advancing the story – to show the lives as they are lived under Big Brother and just how far man will go against man to keep power.
The first time I heard about smart tv’s that hear everything you say, I thought “1984”, but nobody seems to care about privacy. Don’t get me going, I reference “1984” all the time and most people don’t even know what I’m talking about.
In the 50’s there was reason to be concerned about surveillance, oppression, and the manipulation of facts. They’d just come out of WWII with the Nazis and the Gestapo,Russia was dealing with Stalin, and the US was going through the McCarthy era. What’s really disturbing to me is how much closer we are to the future society that they imagined.
I think the best remedy is add crticle thinking, marketing strategies and how to detect fake news to basic education. I read where a European country is doing this because russia is targeting them as well.
You made me think of this Black, blacker, blackest and cold beyond frozen things. Where is between when there is naught to life but fragile dragon wings. Anne McCaffrey Dragonflight
With all that is going on in the world today. Tech. Politics and more this book is close to what is being seen today. I read years ago and will be reading again soon. It is kinda scary.
It’s dystopian fiction, like The Handmaid’s Tale. It’s scary how much of it applies today, when the president is screaming fake news, and his people are saying things like alternative facts and the truth isn’t true.
Let’s just say if you’re looking for cheerful 1984 may not be your best choice. It’s really good though.
The book or this administration???
bada bing!!!
It’s my favorite book. It’s not happy. But it’s really relevant and the ending blew me away.
It doesn’t, and that’s the point of it I think. Honestly I felt it’s a very important book, but not a particularly great one to read.
That book is either on my “read before I die list” or “avoid forever”!! I can’t decide. I was assigned a book report on this one in 11th grade. we all got a diff book. I remember I complained to the teacher because mine was longer and way more boring. She basically called me a spoiled entitled brat in nicer words and gave me a shorter book. I have regretted that ever since!
It got better about 1/3 way in for me
I listened on audio though, so maybe that helped
Read it in high school, hated it. Then again, hated Catcher in the Rye in high school, re-read it this summer and now it is one of my favorite books. I have no interest in re-reading 1984 again.
Think Handmaid’s Tale. Important read, but not particularly pleasant.
love, love, love this book. Loved the HULU series just as much. I usually say the book is better. In the cast of Handmaids, I can’t say I like the book better. The TV series and book are equally spectacular.
@LiDe I absolutely agree.
Ignore them – it gets super cheery and uplifting. It’s all unicorns and cupcakes by the middle.
Whhhhhaaaaa? What every you are smoking, SHARE!!!
A very important book to read, especially now.
You’ll have to wait for the November midterms to find out. ?
The latter
It’s a very hard book to read but if you can stick with it, you’ll be glad.
It’s an excellent book — but if you think it gets dark now, oh, it gets worse, so much worse. But don’t let that stop you! I’ve was this novel at least six times in my life and it’s sooo worth reading!
We often refer to 1984 today..so i guess it is never ending.
I stopped reading it too. Need to try again.
I thought this site was apolitical. Knock it off.
Should be but have read a lot of political and anti-Christianity posts. These should not be on this site.
It’s a political book.
this is a political book..not one we want to adhere to for the future but definitely a political book.
Then discuss the politics in the book without comparing to what is happening today. That’s all I am asking.
THAT. What Vicki Graham Allen just said. If I want to hear snide school-children arguing and bickering and calling each other poopy heads, I’ll turn on the news. That’s why I read–and I can make up my OWN mind.
@Vicki exactly. I come here to get away from all the crap. To have it drug in here like dogshit on people’s shoes (when actually it’s in their brains) is appalling.
The whole point of these books is to compare them to what is currently happening. They weren’t written in a bubble and don’t exist is a bubble. Every administration gets compared to dystopian novels. 1984 and HMT happen to be the current ones.
@Debra Agreed. This should be a place where everyone can come together, no matter if you are republican or Democrat, Christian, Buddhist or Atheist. We should be able to discuss the books like mature adults.
Yeah, anyone who wants to delete anyone who disagrees with their political and religious opinions REALLY missed the point of 1984.
@Vicki Exactly. I have never seen otherwise in this group.
@Karen Then let’s compare it to the administration that was in office when the book was written.
@Karen I have unfortunately.
@Vicki go ahead. That would be a great discussion.
@Karen I don’t wish to but for those that want to compare, go ahead.
@Karen And I haven’t read this book yet, LOL.
anyone who wants to shove their opinions down another’s throat has totally missed the point of most of the literature in this category. Why don’t you create Gilead with your insistence on your own beliefs? How about an Animal Farm? Keep it to yourself.
@Vicki I was not talking about you, Vicki. Sorry I didn’t make that clear. I don’t care what ANYONE thinks, but this site is not a place for people to showcase their disgust with the current admin, any other admin, or compare it to these books. THAT practice is doing exactly what they’re railing against–and that’s typical of those who hate the current.
@Debra Gotcha
Then there is no point in discussing the book. It is a political book made to spark political discussion. Perhaps you should find another post to read that better matches your interests.
@Michele Not anyone who disagrees. Just anyone that brings up current politics or religion. Not the place for it.
It’s one thing to discuss, it’s another to force your opinions down someone else’s throat. It depends on how it is phrased, and those who are worst, are (seemingly) completely unaware, wrapped about in their own self-righteousness.
And “perhaps you should find another post” is a classic example. Drive away anyone who doesn’t agree with you. Either force people to conform or drive them away.
“The best books… are those that tell you what you know already.”
― George Orwell, 1984
Not forcing anyone to do anything. If you don’t want to talk about politics, don’t bother with discussing a political novel. Saying not to bring up politics with 1984 is like saying not to bring up race while discussing To Kill a Mockingbird.
I would love to here your thoughts on how this book is irrelevant to current times. If you don’t care to, that’s cool to. ?
There’s a difference between saying, I’m very concerned with how people are being propagandized and told what to think and saying, Trump is the antiChrist. Which is what these things devolve into (both those are merely examples, both sides of the aisle–all sides, there ARE more than 2) are equally arseholish at times. Also, this is an INTERNATIONAL site, and it’s rude to make them scroll through hundreds of hate-filled posts.
You do have the *choice* not to read comments and to not respond. I roll my eyes and move on all the time. In essence, you can choose to exercise your right to remain silent, just as others choose to exercise their first amendment right to free speech. You choose to be outraged. Not everyone views the world as I do. Not everyone views the world as you do. And most of the world views America through a completely different lens then either of us.
However, it is essential for good people to stand up for civility. The reason we have jerks saying anything they choose is not because we have free speech, it’s because we have no manners.
I rather thought THIS site was above that kind of thing. Poor deluded me.
Sometimes things said that we consider in poor manners and lacking civility are coming from those that have been marginalized and abused by society. Sometimes we need to be made uncomfortable to grow and I think that makes all voices worth listening to. When we have visceral, flash anger, reactions we need to be careful that those reactions aren’t conditioned responses caused by the media we consume.
I really like what you said there, @Danelle. That is very well put.
It’s a sad state of affairs when people can’t civilally discuss politics, especially when discussing a political work of literature. I miss my days back in college when we would stay up all night debating about everything from economic globalism to whether Ross and Rachel were on a break. :sigh
It is very dark. But very appropos today.
A second thought: why would anybody think it’s anything but dark? That’s the whole point of the book!
Such a great book!
It does not get less dark. If it’s really not working for you I recommend looking up a summary. I believe it is an important book but not one that is enjoyable to read. Don’t beat yourself up. Look up how it ends and move on to something that suits you better.
I didnt enjoy it. It was dark and horrible the whole way.
Given the current political situation, it is a good read. I read it in 9th grade (I am 40+) and read it again in English (my daughter found it in English at a flea market here in France) and in French. It is tough to read but it makes you think. My French husband often says to me, “Big Brother is watching! lol!
No it stays dark.
Dark
Dark dark dark
Well it’s a dark book prophetically about our day. So if you want a break from reality read something else
I reread it a few years ago. It’s certainly not a page turner and took me a while to get through it, but I thought it was very good.
It is a hard and dark read. Having said that, I think it’s a work of genius with a lot of insights. But there is never any shame in saying, “I don’t think I can read this just now.” Political, apolitical, bad headaches, hemorrhoids acting up- whatever. No shame in putting it down.
It’s hard and dark, but you’ll be glad you read it.
I am in the middle of it… I plan to finish it.
I read it as a teen and later as an adult. It is a brilliant work!
I read it years and years ago. Like in the early 70s. It made a huge impact on me then.
I just picked up a copy. I read it over fifty years ago. I probably didn’t understand it very well then and I’m reading it again because of current events.
I’m still working on it but I’m liking it better than Catch-22
Re: Catch 22 – I wonder if you need some level of military background to really understand the book. Or recognize the parts of MASH that weren’t the least bit comedic.
You are probably on to something since I have extremely little familiarity with either of those topics ?
Is is very dark, but it’s one that you’ll be glad you read if you finish it. Good luck!
Finish it.
It is not really a “good” story, but worth the read, in my opinion. I never give up on classics. I feel a kinship with the past, the author, and other readers, when reading a stand alone classic.
Dark.
It’s a dystopic novel, but a great read if you think about what is happening today!
Dark as night!!
It is dark but read it!
It stays dark.
Quite dark, the ending ticked me off.
It’s dark but comes to an end quickly
I don’t mind dark as long as it is interesting and has a good storyline.
Hahaha,
See the movie.
It’s dark. Just like our times ?
Dark – the whole way through.
Does not get better (my opinion) Don’t struggle. Move on to a good book. Books are like vegetables. Be happy eat/read the ones you like and you will feel good.
Too dark – I got the early.
Dark.
It is perhaps too close for comfort? i would wade through it. i read it when i was 15 and its principles still are with me, right along with Animal Farm and Brave New World. Eye opening, all of them!
I agree! Those of us in high school and university in the 1960s and into the 1970s read brilliant classics and just released books as well, for the most part without having conservative political challenges trying to delete meaningful books.
Why read it when you’re living it?
Yeah, I wouldn’t be optimistic for any uplifting moments. Like others, I think maybe it is too painful to read these days (Truth is Not Truth, Don’t Believe What You See and Hear, etc.)
Very dark.
a dark read throughout
I struggled as well. I put it down for like 6 months and then finally came back and finished it, but had kinda forgotten all of what I had read. I got the gist of it, but it’s not my favorite type of read. Good luck to you.
It continues in the same vein, but it’s meant to be edifying, not just entertaining. You’ll never be delighted that you read it, but you’ll be better able to judge current events.
There is a brief moment when you think there might be a light, but then you are plunged deeper in darkness. Almost wishing you hadn’t had that glimmer of hope at all.
I read it in June. It actually gets darker toward the end. As others have suggested I think it is too close to our present time to be enjoyable fiction.
A classic though, stick with it.
Very dark
I’m reading it now too. It is a difficult read for the psyche for sure; It gets darker and darker. I’m sticking with it though because I think it’s going to be one of those books that I like more after I finish it and think about it. Heart of Darkness was the same for me.
Very dark was not my favorite
I haven’t read it since high school (graduated in 1980). I’m sure I’d have a different take on it now. 😉
I also read it in HS, and reread it recently. My view of it changed a bit, especially how I viewed Julia. Reading it through adult eyes makes a great difference.
I started it, but just couldn’t finish it.
Is that a rhetorical question? Is this ….?
If you haven’t read it, finish it! I personally thought I’d re read it, but it is just too close to what is happening in the US, today, and I just can’t. The reality we are facing,is far more troubling than the the book.
I don’t agree and hate when people make comments about our current situation.,
Vicki Graham Allen , presently, you have that right, as do I….Free speech is next! potus is working on eliminating that
@Vicki you’re right. Best to just hide our heads in the sand and pray for the best. That has always worked out so well.
Vicki Graham Allen, you are certainly entitled to your opinion. That’s what makes our country great, as it always has been. Unfortunately, many of us see the current situation differently than you do and are also free to express our opinions. Thank you, 1st Amendment.
@Vicki You can “not agree” but then you should not be on a thread discussing 1984. Many books we are discussing in GAR are dystopian or political and it is impossible to discuss them without considering our current political environment. 1984 is a dystopian political novel that regardless of your politics has very obvious parallels for what is happening. “Truth is not truth” “Don’t believe what you see or hear” and “alternative facts” could be lifted right from their pages.
I read it in 1984 as a high school senior for English class. I still remember it’s message and certain parts. Read it for your intellect and so you can see the parallels in today’s world. Then when people refer to it you will understand why.
I have tried twice to read it, could not get through it.
It is a rather dark novel. It is one of those “important books” that should be read. You’ll see a lot of parallels in the world today.
It’s not worth the struggle….
It truly is. 🙁
Yes, very dark, but important.
It’s not supposed to be a comedy. It predicted this administration.
I got about half way try it and just didn’t like it.
It’s not a “likable” book. And here we are…living it!
I read that book ? a very very long time ago. Way before 1984! I know that I read it. It was not a happy story but one that made me think.
I think this is one in which you can read a good summary. The plot and themes are important, but I didn’t care for the writing style at all.
just watch the news
I started it but only got halfway through before I had to stop.
Why did you “have to stop”? It’s reflective of what’s is happening today!
I needed to focus on something else. It hits very close to home with everything going on today and I just could not finish it. I like to read most of the time to get away from the happenings today. It just wasn’t for me right now.
@Angela Understood. It is hard to read in today’s environment. I did last year (third time) and as horrified as I had been on the first and second reading — that was nothing to how I felt this time. 🙁
It’s bleak, but worth it.
Yes, it is hard, but isn’t anything worth while?
I just bought it. Read it in college but don’t remember it much. It will resonate with me now.
It ain’t easy. Keep at it.
I had that same problem… I eventually just stopped reading it… I found it too upsetting for my mental health…
Don’t watch the news!
@Patricia oh, I don’t…
@Shirley Great! head in the sand! Don’t read it, thoughts and prayers are good, and idealism should exist!
@Shirley Do you vote with no knowledge, too?
@Patricia let’s try to be kind and civil to each other, respecting alternate viewpoints. Isn’t that why we frequent this forum?
@D.M. Apolgies….it was simply a question
@Patricia We’re all a little on edge. I get it.
@Patricia I totally understand. When politics gets in the mix, it’s difficult not to respond. All is well in our little book world, which is truly my escape from the relentless political atmosphere we all must abide.?
great book! but i had to read several times
I read it in high school along with Animal Farm and again in 1984. It’s a very bleak look at the future. I was very happy that it was not true in 1984 but it is very true now. Maybe that’s why some people have a hard time reading it now. I have the problem with A Handmaiden’s Tale. I read it several years ago and cannot not watch the TV show.
I tried to read it as well. Couldn’t get into it. My husband keeps telling me I need to read it. Just can’t
Do you vote? Read it!
Yes I do vote.
Stay with it. It is worth a bit of struggle.
The entire thing is dark because it presupposes a dark state. It’s worth it, though, especially when you start to notice little things in politics that echo points in the book.
Darkness is the whole point.
I struggled the entire way through. Not because it was poor writing or anything. It’s just 80% anti-fascist / anti-communist propaganda. It’s definitely got a lot to make you think, but it drives that propaganda the entire way through the book.
If you want a book with better anti-war ideas, read Catch-22. If you want more updated propaganda, watch the news.
And Catch-22 makes you laugh
Continues on and on. But sure helps you understand the point of the 1984 Apple commercial.
Important book for tidy. “The truth is not the truth” should resonate
After you’ve finished 1984, read Animal Farm. Once again you will see a correlation between the book and the current political climate.
Not really supposed to be a beach read.
I finished it and the writing is well done. I found it depressing and was glad to be done reading it!
And, it’s come true!
Huh? How so? Things are better today than ever before in many years.
darker and darker with every page
It’s supposed to be upsetting.
Dark, dark, dark…
Orwell wrote it as a warning, not as an instruction manual. ?
It’s supposed to remind us what NOT to do, and make us wary of just following blindly.
Do finish it. It’s an important book and cultural reference. Now, To the Lighthouse, on the other hand, I still can’t get past the 2nd or 3rd page!
I got stuck on that one too!
If you can hang in there for a few chapters, it clicks in. At least, it did for me. Stream of consciousness is not easy, but it can be rewarding.
Nothing darker
Invariably
It continues.
I did read the whole thing and did not enjoy it.
For any naysayers who come here to dismiss my opinion saying it’s not supposed to to be enjoyable, I did not enjoy the writing style and found the main relationship tedious.
The world was scary and intriguing as it was intended. The actual story… not so much.
I agree with a commenter above, if you cannot continue, a summary should suffice as the themes are very important and maybe you could come back to it later.
You didn’t read it in university? It was required reading for many years.
oh, to assume that everyone went to university….(touchy autodidact here)
I understand the book, and the themes are important. However, I found Orwell a very boring writer.
Does not get better.
For something simpler and in the truth is not the truth..check out Animal Farm’s last scenes.
I think the story picks up at the end. It’s never going to be a light and happy book but I would stick with it.
Continues but you have to finish it
I honestly thought the best part of the book was after the “story” ended
It’s dystopian. By its very nature, it’s dark.
If you think 1984 is dark, wait until you read The Road. Holy Crap! Dark as a moonless night.
Cormac Mc Carthy..great writer but very dark. I sobbed thru the Road…
No hope whatsoever in The Road.
But at least that you don’t know what caused the problems but in 1984 it’s the ruthless government
Couldn’t agree more.
Handmaid’s Tale… ruthless government, Hunger Games… ruthless government, Divergent Series… ruthless government. I could go on for days.
I liked The Road compared to 1984. I also enjoyed The Handmaid’s Tale, The Hunger Games, The Divergent series but I just couldn’t finish this one. I also enjoyed reading Animal farm.
I agree, The Road was as dark as a moonless night. In the winter.
Pretty real, thus, pretty dark.
I slog through books like this one, breathing deeply and hugging my loved ones. Strange thing, I’ve learned to accept and let go of the dark, I’m aware of it in life, but finishing a book like this one often makes me so grateful for how good I have it.
I know it is a classic yet went slow for me.
Slow, but wirthy. Keep on slogging.
@Judy
Yup.. agreed!
Awful.
Yes, but is it 1986? We lived that year and were surprised.
I thought it was the year too-lol Long year 1984 was..
Too close to reality. I read it when it seemed impossible. Loved it.
Didnt love it, but thought a lot.
Read ‘What’s The Matter With Kansas’ by Thomas Frank.
Or , don’t waste your time with a book your not enjoying . Too many good books out there waiting to be read. If you need closer from this book , I read tossing it across the room can bring closer.
It’s pretty dark all the way through.
Yes, but listen to what it says. Some of this is happening or already has.
@Judy oh, well I know. We are indeed living in the story.
Just like Ayn Rand foretold the Obama administration in Atlas Shrugged and many refuse to read or stop reading because of their dislike.
I believe this administration is calling out the media for picking and choosing what to tell much like the media eliminating truths in this book.
Amanda Smith Hodde Actually — that is not what happened in the book. In the book the government decided what the “media” was — basically what the message was. It aligns much more to things we are hearing now like “Truth is not truth”, and “Alternative Facts”. In fact – one of the most famous quotes was “The party told you to reject the evidence of your eyes and ears. It was their final, most essential command.” Which sounds a lot like “What you’re seeing and what you’re reading is not what’s happening,”
No doesn’t get better!
A barren, hopeless book. Great, but, it ain’t gonna leave u feeling uplifted
Stays dark and gets a little darker in my opinion. Ended it just recently and I still think about it – wow quite a message. I actually “enjoyed” the experience because it really made me think. But immediately went to Huck Finn to get me out of the funk.
I struggled through it. It is not a favorite but I’m happy I finished it. Would not read again.
It never gets better. I really disliked that book.
It’s a dystopian book for a reason. No it get’s darker
Try another but better IMO 451 Fahrenheit
I struggled through it just yesterday. It’s dark. Stays dark.
Oh, it’s dark – and very eye openingly current….
Nope, dark all the way. But PLEASE finish it. It will change how you see things. I was pretty politically/current events aware when I read this in high school. Yet, it was like blinders had been thrown off — and that was pre-internet days! It’s a book that will stay with you. You may not want to ever read it again, but you’ll never forget it and the lessons it teaches.
It’s a dark book unfortunately still a harbinger of our future times as well.
It is dark, but certainly worth it. This is not an uplifting book, but a book you will always remember.
I read it at least 50 years ago, and I’ve never been able to entirely get over it. It hit me hard back then, and you couldn’t pay me to reread it again ever!
But that’s exactly WHY it should be read, even just once!
It gets darker.
The same vane right up to President Trump
Hahaha I’m laughing because my 10th grader complained about how awful it was all summer.
I’m struggling with 2018
Me too.
Me too, Darlene. Dark, dark, dark.
Read it recently and hated it.
Dark
Yuk
Yup, what she ⬆️ said.
It’s very dark and doesn’t have a happy ending – that’s really pretty much the point of dystopian novels – it’s worth reading for the lesson in how people are convinced and then embrace servility
It is a dystopian novel, which ain’t good by its very definition.
Very dark, I had nightmares from reading a synopsis…
It’s pretty gloomy. I read it on New Year’s Eve 1985. Why? Because I felt as if I couldn’t end 1984 without having read it! Then? Thought it was a good, cautionary tale that I thought vaguely applied.
Today? I’m thinking I should probably pore through it again. It might seem a bit closer to me now.
Dismal but fascinating. Makes you thankful for freedom.
The vein is the same throughout. It’s a brilliant cautionary tale. And, it’s been played out all over the world already, alas.
It’s not meant to entertain.
Me too! I’ll keep reading til it gets better
I want to get one of those hats that says, “Make 1984 Fiction Again!”
You mean “Drain the Swamp” ? 😉
It gets worse
Stays dark. I was very relieved in 1985.
It’s dark the whole way…I’m just wondering what u expected
The themes and warnings are what’s important…very important. Much in the same vein as Fahrenheit 451
I re-read this year. It’s dark but it make you think and appreciate things.
Does not get better as in the story, but it Isa significant book. Keep struggling. It’s worth it.
Gets darker
It’s a cautionary tale – dark and foreboding.
Like 2018.
It will be better on November 7th
If you hate 1984, don’t read the news.
Great book and Very dark!
Pro tip, don’t let your twelve year old read it (I had a bad habit of grabbing books off of my parents’ shelves when I was wayyyyy to young).
My daughter read it when she was 12 and it’s still her favorite book. I read it when I was 13 and also loved it.
Your family has stronger nerves than ours, clearly. Which means we’re often put off of some quality literature just b/c we can’t handle it.
I was 14 when I read it first. Then in my 20’s. Then last year (for obvious reasons). As frightened as I was at 14, this last reading was the most horrifying for me (and I’m 58 now).
@Barbara it disturbed me much more as an adult as well.
I agree more disturbing as an adult. I first read it as required reading in 8th grade and then again in college. Much scarier the 2nd time around.
@Barbara perhaps at 14, one thinks these things could never happen; but at 58 one sees that, yes they can!
@Cheryl Exactly that. 🙁
Hi Katy!
I read it when I was a teenager.
My son read it in 8th grade
It’s my daughter’s favorite book.
It took me awhile to get through it because yes the first half really drags.
Not any better
Given the world today…way darker.
There’s a reason “1984” is synonymous with “dystopia”.
Never liked it, but worth reading for frame of reference.
Me either. I get the big brother thing, but I thought the book was borish. I also didnt enjoy Fahrenheit 451
Much, much darker
Same Dark vein and darker. Brave New world is worse
Vein
Dark to the bitter end
I think I need to re-read…
I think I’ll listen to this (audiobook) on YouTube. Must be a long book, since the audio for it is about 9 hours long.
Dark all the way – but a necessary read.
Dark, darker and darker still as I re-read it in a more modern context – I first read it as a teenager. Worth the effort, although granted not exactly uplifting. I loved it even though I didn’t if you see what I mean.
Abandon book!
It is dark from the beginning and then at the end it gets really dark. 🙁 Sorry. The subject warrants it but I get it — it’s a tough read.
At least it is a short book. I am struggling with the boredom of The Count of Monte Cristo which is so long….
Love TCOMC! Lol
Julie Mignosa I want to love it the way I loved so many of the musketeer books when I read them decades ago. But after the first third of the book, which was great, it slowed to a crawl so Dumas could milk it for serialization. Too many side plots, too many sub stories, too many scenes of unnecessary dialogue. That was acceptable in serialization 100 years ago but it is torture today. Especially when you consider that these characters are one dimensional and the story is melodrama. I just need it to move quicker or be shorter.
i usually like the books better than the movies, but i must say for TCOMC i really liked the whole take in the Jim Caviezel movie version tons better! And it was nothing like the book.
I listened to it and loved it!
It gets darker
At least it is a short book
Very dark but glad I read.
It’s dystopian literature ?
Forget it
Darker with each page. It’s a dark Dystopian read
Me too!
Pretty much the same throughout the book. It makes you think of how much of this book is becoming real.
It’s dark and often depressing, a lot like America today.
Continues
Dystopian dark…….short read, but necessary!
Look where we are now..hint hint
I keep finding parallels between 1984 and our current society. I think we let Big Brother into our homes a long time ago.
All power goes to the powerful, who maintain their power
It’s very, very dark and depressing. I hated it
A cautionary tale…
It gets darker
VANE ???
Grim & disturbing…
DARK. But so good, and so relevant, especially today.
Yep!
Well, I like it, but I like dystopian fiction. It is a dark vision to be sure, but thought provoking.
And we should want our thoughts provoked sometimes, not just entertained.
DARK
Dark. But so important to read. A great book!!
It’s dark. Dystopian.
But very relevant to today’s politics.
Yep. I actually like Animal Farm better, and think it is more relevent, but both have a place.
I have yet to read Animal Farm.
@Beth I bought them as a set w the intention of reading 1984. I read Animal Farm first, and now that I’ve finished both, I totally preferred Animal Farm.
@Amy, it’s not that long and kids really enjoyed it and quote it to this day! Especially, “Some are more equal than others.”
@Barbara And that line is why it feels to relevant today for me.
My time is my life and a non renewable resource. I never waste it on a book I’m not enjoying.
I’ve tried twice to read it and have yet to finish. Will probably give it another go tho…..
It continues in a dark vein
Dark. Consider it a helpful guide for the days to come.
So dark
I struggled with it,too, but not because of the subject matter. I found Orwell’s writing style to be monotonous. I longed for some more dialogue or action.
Yes!! It’s so hard to get into. So dry.
But doesn’t that style match the tone of the setting?
You want dark, try Omarosa’s Unhinged. Yikes. Now I am waiting for Woodward’s book Fear. Orwell had nothing on these two.
Can’t wait to read Fear. Did you like Omarosa’s book?
Don’t read that depressing stuff unless you want ulcers.
It’s not going to get better, but it’s an important text to read and understand.
That’s the only reason I’m finishing it.
Luckily, it’s fairly short ?
@Josephra
I read the above comments and was going to say at least it didn’t happen in 1984. Keep calm and carry on.
It gets worse
Hmmm hate to break it you, but it is dark.
Tried to watch the movie before reading the book. I was put off both by the bleakness
It only gets darker.
I liked it. It’s written that way because their lives are very bleak and monotonous. He wrote it that way on purpose. I loved the book.
I agree. I realized the other day that I’d read it three different times, in high school and college, and learned more each time.
Doesn’t get brighter
It is a dark cautionary tale!
You have to stick with it; it’s an important book to read. Reward yourself with a fun read after you’re done! 🙂
It’s a dark book.
Like today
It’s pretty dark, but an interesting take on a known story
Don’t read classics for laughs
Dark story but I really enjoyed it.
Imagine having to read that as a teenager! I keep thinking I should retread it, but don’t really want to. Real life is bad enough right now
I’ve read it about 4 times and seen the film about as many. A classic.
I am right in the middle. It is slow going but going to finish.
You HAVE to finish. It’s a timely book with the lawyer for the president stating truth is not truth.
And trump stating
What you’re seeing and what you’re reading is not what’s happening”
I teach 1984 to my students every year. I recommend you stick with it…it’s a classic for good reason, and very relevant to our times. And, Big Brother wants to watch you finish it!… ?
Taught it for many years!
So for both of you what was your purpose or learning outcomes for teaching this book?
Everyone should read this book. Keep reading; you’ll be glad you did!
I didn’t like it.
I agree. I hate the book but its important to read it with today’s politics.
Dark and a bit boring but worth it, really.
It’s dark and scary
parts of it are like the same chapter rewritten.. its dark
It’s not your feel good, cozy read. It’s a dystopian novel. They’re always dark and hopeless. But……what a wonderful classic!
Oh, it’s dark. There are a lot of parallels in the book with what’s going on now.
Would you say it’s better, worse, or about the same as Brave New World? I haven’t read 1984 yet but I did read Brave New World back in high school years ago.
Not all books are supposed to make the reader feel warm and fuzzy. Consider reading The Inferno while you’re at it.
Dark to darker. Its really just too real right now. ?
Read it in high school – I’m passing as it certainly wasn’t memorable.
I know how you feel. Orwell just keeps going on and on about how dark it is and drags out the story. I kept shouting “I know your world sucks please get on with it”
It makes most of today’s dystopian tales look light by comparison.
You don’t really want to know.
It’s worth the read. It is dark, scary, but so relevant to what is going on today. I read it as a teen about 50 years ago, Animal Farm is also a very predictive, forewarning book. Both classics. I’m working my way through Dostoevsky ‘s The Brothers Karamazov. Deep!
I’m afraid I related to the horse too much to continue. As a teen I didnt understand it.
It gets darker. The vein gets deeper. It’s a very important book to have read these days …
Yep, it gets darker but worth the journey. It is such an important book that really makes us think about the importance of defending democracy.
I resorted to Sparknotes just to finish it. I think next time, I’ll opt for a root canal
It’s fairly pedestrian but better as an older reader
Cute cat.
It only gets darker. You don’t read it because it’s optimistic or even good. You read it because it’s important.
Well said.
Uh, isnt it dark vein?????
It was better when you read it before 1984.
ends in same dark vein; have alcohol handy
The historical context may be a problem. The book corroborates reports from within the Soviet Union (at the time), Yugoslavia, Romania, Albania and the People’s Republic of China (up to today). The idea of three major powers juggling control of the world was and, has proven to be, no fiction. The British actually built ‘ Floating Fortresses’ between the two World Wars so the book puts all the governments involved on notice.
Here’s a sequel with a different tack :
https://books.google.com/books/about/The_End_of_Big_Brother.html?id=B2zPswEACAAJ&source=kp_book_description
As many have noted this is often required high school reading, and I’ve often wondered why? The first half is the main character having sex the last half is him getting tortured. I wonder if we told parents that are kids were reading about sex and torture what they would say, but in some ways it’s okay because it’s 1984. Classics have a pass sometimes just because they are classics. For me unless you spend tons of time with background knowledge of the political situation at the time and how it relates today it’s just not worth it especially as a topic for study in high school.
They’re seeing much worse in movies. I did when I was younger.
When I studied it in high school, we did spend lots of time studying the political situation at the time. To me it’s always worth it getting people to read the classics, that’s what education is about.
I read it in 8th grade English. Kids are already being exposed to drugs and sex in the real world by high school. I think having a frank, guided discussion on uncomfortable subjects is exactly what kids need in high school.
I think it really oversimplifies the book to say the first half is two characters having sex and the second half is torture. This is not 50 Shades of Grey. I’ve read it three times including when I was young and I can honestly say – I never gave the sex scenes a second thought and even with your post I had to really think about it. Neither the sex nor the torture was done gratuitously – they are essential to advancing the story – to show the lives as they are lived under Big Brother and just how far man will go against man to keep power.
@Barbara my sentiments exactly
Although, telling kids they shouldn’t is probably the best way to get them to read it.?
it stays pretty dark as far as I remember. But it’s a book that will stick with you forever
It’s more important in 2018 than in 1948 or 1984. Keep reading, and refer to Sparknotes and other resources and criticism.
I loved it in high school ?
It is a dark foreshadowing of the future overall. Today, we’re not at all far from its prediction.
Watch the movie, it was required reading in high school.
Handmaids Tale reminds me of that book somewhat
It only keeps getting darker
Stop reading find another book on the Great American read book club list.
No, keep reading. Then pick something lighter like Harry Potter or Alice in Wonderland
The first time I heard about smart tv’s that hear everything you say, I thought “1984”, but nobody seems to care about privacy. Don’t get me going, I reference “1984” all the time and most people don’t even know what I’m talking about.
@Chelsea Me, too. It’s creepy.
@KS, I agree.
Then there’s the fact of cameras in our TVs. That creeped me out a bit.
Me too. I am finding it very depressing. It’s hard to believe it was written in the early 50’s.
The biggest reason I’ll never read it again. I’m glad I read it and I’ll recommend it required reading, But once was enough.
In the 50s we were also worried about “The Bomb”. Not really Father Knows Best time.
In the 50’s there was reason to be concerned about surveillance, oppression, and the manipulation of facts. They’d just come out of WWII with the Nazis and the Gestapo,Russia was dealing with Stalin, and the US was going through the McCarthy era. What’s really disturbing to me is how much closer we are to the future society that they imagined.
Dania Rodríguez-Díaz , I agree. Now that we know about the hacking, we have to believe we are being manipulated. Scary echoes of 1984.
I think the best remedy is add crticle thinking, marketing strategies and how to detect fake news to basic education. I read where a European country is doing this because russia is targeting them as well.
I agree with the McCarthyism focus & the Post war issues. Our openness resulting from the new media is a far cry from our early TV.
Supposedly it was about Korea.
@Cristina, Mash was about Korea but was during Vietnam. I guess it shows the universality of, well, everything.
@Jeanne so true
Dark, darker, darkest
You made me think of this
Black, blacker, blackest and cold beyond frozen things.
Where is between when there is naught to life but fragile dragon wings.
Anne McCaffrey Dragonflight
Oh thank you! I was trying to think of Anne McCaffrey just recently!
I am reading it because I thought I had read it and forgotten it. But, it seems that I hadn’t read it but got confused with Animal Farm. LOL
There are some similarities lol. I also had Brave New World confused with them a little bit. I decided I needed to reread. ;^)
Yes, I feel like I read many of these books so long ago. I cannot remember them. So I am re-reading too.
I read it years ago in HS. Very dark, and depressing.
I enjoyed reading that in HS, but then again, I like dark. ?
I gave up on it.
Life is too short to push through a book you aren’t enjoying. Put it down, move on and find joy in something else
With all that is going on in the world today. Tech. Politics and more this book is close to what is being seen today. I read years ago and will be reading again soon. It is kinda scary.
Stick with it. It is dark but it is relevant.
Pretty dark. But so relevant to today!
Read it. It’s important .
It gets darker still…but hard to put down
The whole novel is indeed dark. But every novel doesn’t have to be fairy tale light in order to enjoy it and be enlightened by it, does it?
I liked it when I was young, but too dark for now. Politics!
Dark all the way. It is about an apocalyptic world.
It’s dystopian fiction, like The Handmaid’s Tale. It’s scary how much of it applies today, when the president is screaming fake news, and his people are saying things like alternative facts and the truth isn’t true.
@Denise , too close for comfort.
I didnt enjoy reading it.
It’s a cautionary tale…
The old black and white movie is very good
I don’t even know if I made it past the first 50 pages.
Prophetic
The reason so many are picking it up or rereading it is because it is so like today. Important book. Stick with it.
I had to read it in collage. It was crazy but good.