George Orwell, born Eric Arthur Blair in 1903, was an English novelist, essayist, journalist, and critic. He is best known for his works that explore themes of totalitarianism, social injustice, and the abuse of power. Orwell’s early life was marked by a sense of social inequality, which was heightened by his experiences at Eton and later in Burma, where he worked as a colonial police officer. These formative years deeply influenced his political outlook and his future writing.
Orwell's literary career began with his first book, Down and Out in Paris and London (1933), a semi-autobiographical account of poverty and hardship. However, it was his later works that cemented his place in literary history. Animal Farm (1945) is a satirical novella that critiques Soviet communism, using animals to represent political figures. His most famous work, 1984 (1949), is a dystopian novel that explores the dangers of a totalitarian regime and the loss of individual freedoms. The novel’s concept of "Big Brother" and its warning against surveillance remain highly relevant today.
Throughout his life, Orwell was committed to democratic socialism, and his work often reflects his disdain for fascism and authoritarianism. Despite facing health challenges, he continued to write prolifically, producing essays and articles that offered sharp political insights. Orwell passed away in 1950, but his works continue to influence writers and thinkers worldwide, leaving a legacy of courage and critical thought.
