Review: 1984

An all-time classic story in a new format. I stumbled upon this new recording from Audible, and thought it was time I explored the depths of 1984. And what a ride it was.
Firstly, this recording is absolutely fantastic. All the voices (and a great cast it is!) along with the additional background sounds are a delight.
As for the story, 1984 is one of those stories that everyone knows of, but I suspect far less have actually read (or listened). It’s a chilling story that certainly holds up 75 years after it was first published. In fact, it’s eerie, at times, just how relevant it is today. I suspect that is why it has had such a place among the greats of 20th century literature.
It’s an intriguing tale of a future where everything you say and do it monitored for ‘appropriateness’. And severe punishment comes to all those who dare to step outside of orthodoxy. And, without spoiling the ending, I was surprised at how it all concluded. It is indeed chilling all the way to the end.
Who wrote it
George Orwell was the pen name of Eric Arthur Blair, a writer and novelist in the early 20th century.
Why I read it
This work is famous. By chance I discovered this recording, and, along with a bit of internal desire to add a little more fiction to my reading list, this seemed a perfect candidate.
What I liked
The story is great. Brilliantly written, and it is clear why this has had such a cultural influence in the proceeding decades.
Orwell has a great ability to build an entire world rather quickly. We get so many little glimpses into how this world operates, but not nearly enough to answer every question we might raise. It adds a wonderful level of intrigue.
This recording also receives full marks. It was a joy to listen to.
What I didn’t
My only real minor gripe is that I didn’t love the ending. I can see why it ended that way, and, truth be told, it’s possible I wouldn’t have enjoyed the conclusion no matter where it ended up.
Major Takeaway
The classics of fiction are well worth reading. There is a reason they become classics.
Who should read it
Worth a read for anyone even vaguely interested in this story due to its ongoing cultural influence. This recording especially is a great recommendation for anyone into audiobooks.
1984
An all-time classic story in a new format. I stumbled upon this new recording from Audible, and thought it was time I explored the depths of 1984. And what a ride it was. Firstly, this ...