A Hanging

One of Orwell's short essays - set in Burma, where Orwell spent time an an Imperial Policeman, when Burma was in British control.

The setting is a prison, and we are quickly introduced to an un-named prisoner, taken from his cell and secured as his is taken on his final walk to the gallows.

The narrator (Orwell, presumably) is a part of the police force, but doesn't play an active role in the execution, other than the holding of the dog, but we are treated to his description of events, and to hearing his thoughts on the death of the prisoner, and especially the effects of the execution on those tasked with the duty of officiating or carrying out the job.

No words are wasted, no redundant sentences, just excellent concise writing.

Four stars.