1984

If you can feel that staying human is worth while, even when it can't have any result whatever, you've beaten them.

What thought-provoking and insightful novel. A truly compelling analysis of the psychology of power and human nature.

This was one of the most intense reading sessions I've ever had. I would often forget I am in the safety in my own bed and experience alarming levels of anxiety.

I sympathized with Winston from the first pages, even though he wasn't exactly a likable character. His experiences and emotions seemed so genuine that he felt like a real person to me. A real person stuck in one of my ultimate-nightmare scenarios. Big Brother, IngSoc, Newspeak, the Ministry of Love, the Ministry of Truth, Room 101, the telescreens, all represent horrid concepts I hope people will forcefully fight against if they're ever materialized.

In addition to the captivating plot, I savored the writing style as well. My favorite paragraph from the book was that in which Winston was recalling fragments about his childhood, especially about his mother. I remember thinking that it was one of the most beautiful pieces of writing I've read in a long time. Another part of this book I thoroughly enjoyed was Goldstein's essay. I think it's a sagacious take on society.

The world envisioned in 1984 did not quite materialize, though some people might argue that it actually did, but in a more subtle manner. With all the regulations and surveillance people face today it could all go terribly wrong, if the power ended up in the wrong hands.

Beyond it being an engaging, beautifully written book, this represents quite a milestone in my life. It forced me to think about what kind of a person I would want to be when faced with dire circumstances, it made me reevaluate some of my ideals and principles.