1984

1984 is a dystopian classic, with themes that are more relevant than ever.

Winston Smeds works at the Ministry of Truth where his job is to falsify old news, something he’s trying to do doubleplusgood, as it is called in the official Newspeak. The mission with Newspeak is to limit the citizens’ ability to critical thinking, as this is ultimately criticism of the system.

Winston is trying to remember a time when truth existed, the past wasn’t manipulated and there still was real art. He buys a journal and starts writing down his own thoughts. This isn’t technically forbidden, but if caught, he will probably get the death sentence. Winston decides to take this risk because he wants to think by himself, this act is known as crimethink in Newspeak.

His thinking is disrupted by the telescreen that is always turned on, it’s how the official propaganda is fed to every citizen. “Ignorance is strength”, it shouts. The telescreen also serves as surveillance, it’s a tool for making sure everyone acts just like the authorities desire.

Even love is forbidden, because people shouldn’t have feelings toward each other. Everything is to be overseen by the authorities, and love cannot be controlled. Despite this, Winstons falls in love with Julia, and they meet in secret. Does love stand a chance, or does the telescreen really see all?

Read more: viirus.fi/en/shows/1984