The Battle Towards Introspection by Joseph

The Battle Towards Introspection by Joseph - October 2021 Scholarship Essay

George Orwell’s “1984” is a book that stood out to me in a number of ways. A predominant theme that I discerned is Winston’s eventual discovery of the toxicity he faces in his everyday society. As he begins to realize the Party’s brainwashing propaganda, Winston fundamentally starts to yearn for a personal sense of freedom and strength; he later attempts to breakaway and think for himself. “1984” to me, shows a clear image of thinking independently and finding your own purpose in life. A government with too much control can interfere in a person’s own journey of critical thinking.
The constant threat of Big Brother regularly looms over the heads of the population, as well as a Thought Police that reprimands anyone and everyone who potentially fights back. Winston starts to notice the corruption and injustice of the world that he lives in and begins to despise his conditions. The Party’s relentless behavior towards its “perpetual war” also raises suspicions among Winston and his lover, Julia. Continuous surveillance is an additional reoccurring issue, forever preventing the population’s abilities.
Another main theme of the novel is censorship. The Party’s deletion of public archives and records furthermore alters the course of history, averting any new kind of profundity to be revealed. The true reality of the economy is the exact opposite, almost in a societal ingratiation, or even embarrassment. Any member that shows an opposition to their situation is removed completely and is otherwise erased. Their fight for freedom is ultimately in vain.
As the main character continues to fight against his own autonomy, as well as personal thinking, he eventually is captured and tortured in hopes of aligning his beliefs parallel to the Party’s. Unfortunately in the end, Winston submits to the government’s agenda, declaring his allegiance to Big Brother. His struggle opposing the force is demolished as he is helpless against the fight.
The classic novel, “1984,” by George Orwell is an excellent example of one man’s attempt at individualism and eradication of totalitarianism. Going against what is considered normal in his everyday life, Winston tries in vain to overthrow the regime and control his own life, as his dangerous behavior is what kills his ambition. I, personally, notice the distinctive lesson of Winston’s idiosyncratic introspection, not just over his own mind, but over his survival.