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1985

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( 1,569 ratings, 144 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
In 1985 by Anthony Burgess, the narrative is set in a dystopian future where society is significantly changed by the powerful influence of trade unions and a crumbling social structure. The story explores themes of censorship, free will, and societal decay through a deeply satirical lens. It contrasts the grim reality with unexpected wit and delves into the complexities of human nature.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This book may appeal to you if you enjoy thought-provoking narratives that explore dystopian themes. It offers a unique blend of speculative fiction and social commentary, challenging the reader to consider the effects of political control and societal change. If you're intrigued by the idea of a future shaped by cultural and technological shifts, this might be a compelling read for you.

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Ingenious, chilling and darkly comic, 1985 is a terrifying vision of the future by the 'great postmodern storehouse of British writing', Anthony Burgess.

Ingenious, chilling and darkly comic, 1985 is a terrifying vision of the future by the 'great postmodern storehouse of British writing', Anthony Burgess

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

In characteristically daring style, Anthony Burgess combines two responses to Orwell's 1984 in one book. The first is a sharp analysis: through dialogues, parodies, and essays, Burgess sheds new light on what he called 'an apocalyptic codex of our worst fears', creating a critique that is literature in its own right.

Part two is Burgess' own dystopic vision, written in 1978. He skewers both the present and the future, describing a state where industrial disputes and social unrest compete with overwhelming surveillance, security concerns, and the dominance of technology to make life a thing to be suffered rather than lived.

Together these two works form a unique guide to one of the twentieth century's most talented, imaginative, and prescient writers. Several decades later, Burgess' most singular work still stands.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

1985 by Anthony Burgess has been praised for its imaginative and vital prose, with critics noting its ability to engage readers through erudition and wit. The book is commended for delving into profound ideas with ease and artfulness, making complex topics accessible and entertaining. Critics describe Burgess as an important experimentalist and a skilled raconteur, offering insights into history, sociology, and pop culture, with a style that is both playful and profound.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781846689192

Publisher: Profile Books Ltd

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 14 March 2013

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Serpent's Tail

Edition: Main

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 18.0mm

Width: 128.0mm

Height: 196.0mm

Weight: 171g

Pages: 240

About the Author

Anthony Burgess (1917-1993) was a novelist, poet, playwright, composer, linguist, translator and critic. He is best known for his novel A Clockwork Orange, but altogether he wrote thirty-three novels, twenty-five works of non-fiction, two volumes of autobiography, three symphonies, more than 150 other musical works, reams of journalism and much more. He was born in Manchester, England and grew up in Harpurhey and Moss Side, went to school in Rusholme, and studied at Manchester University. He lived in Malaya, Malta, Monaco, Italy and the US amongst other places, and is still widely read all over the world.

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