Coming Up for Air is a novel by George Orwell, first published in 1939, which reflects his growing disillusionment with the state of the world on the brink of World War II. The story follows George Bowling, a middle-aged insurance salesman, as he experiences a mid-life crisis and longs for a simpler, more idyllic past. Bowling's nostalgic yearning for his childhood in a small English town contrasts sharply with the harsh realities of his present life and the encroaching threat of global conflict. Through Bowling’s journey, Orwell critiques the loss of innocence and the impact of modernity on individual lives.
Why Read This Book
- Offers a poignant critique of the effects of industrialization and modernity on personal identity and societal values.
- Reflects Orwell's own anxieties about the future in the context of impending global conflict.
- Provides insight into Orwell's broader social and political concerns, especially regarding the tension between personal nostalgia and political reality.
- Features Orwell’s characteristic incisive prose and sharp social commentary.
About the Author
George Orwell (1903-1950) was an English novelist, essayist, and journalist, best known for his works 1984 and Animal Farm. His writing is celebrated for its lucid prose, social criticism, and commitment to democratic socialism. Orwell’s works often explore themes of totalitarianism, political corruption, and the erosion of individual freedoms. His keen observations on society and politics have made his works enduringly relevant and influential.
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