This unusual collection of articles and reviews charts George Orwell's development from action research journalist to profound political thinker. Accompanied by a superb introduction and tragi-comic annotations, his life and times come alive.


With his renowned clarity, Orwell explains capitalism, communism, democracy, fascism and socialism; dissects nationalism in a legendary exposition; sketches the great and the bad, including Churchill, Gandhi and Hitler; and discusses Europe, Palestine and Zionism.


Particularly startling is Orwell's continuing relevance. He describes antisemitic responses from those who would not dream of being considered antisemitic, racism conducted as a matter of economic convenience, and the rise of nationalist fervour. George Orwell represents humanity with bravery and realism. Controversially, he also promotes freedom of speech for the unspeakable.