What made George Orwell’s 1984 so popular?

In his classic dystopian novel 1984, George Orwell tells the story of Winston and Julia, two colleagues who live under the oppressive regime of the ruling Party. Constantly watched by Big Brother and spies of the Party, they begin an illicit relationship and dream of resistance. However, their efforts are cut short when they are tricked into an act of open defiance, resulting in their capture and torture. 

In its narrative, 1984 covers a wide variety of themes, including surveillance, language and individualism. So what made it such a popular novel, and why is it still so relevant today?

Publication

1984 was published on 8 June 1949 and was a huge success at the time. Winston Churchill reportedly read it twice and many recognised its significance. In the post-war era, when the threat of fascism was still fresh in the public consciousness, its warning against totalitarianism was stark, reminding readers of the dangers of an unaccountable government that suppresses free speech. 

Legacy

Beyond the post-war years, 1984 has continued to remain relevant, which is why it appears on so many school and university reading lists, as well as being enjoyed by casual readers. Its themes remain particularly poignant to modern audiences; in a world where misinformation is spread unchecked via social media and cries of ‘fake news’ and ‘alternative facts’ are spewed from the mouths of politicians, the theme of control is shockingly pertinent. Indeed, in the week of Donald Trump’s first inauguration in 2016, 1984 returned to the bestseller lists. 

The power of words is also a theme that makes 1984 as popular today as it was upon publication. Words can heal or hurt, and language proves a form of resistance for Winston and Julia. One of Winston’s acts of defiance is writing in a diary - an expression of his individualism that he attains through documenting his unique memories. Again, we can draw parallels between the censorship of language - even thoughts - in the novel and the banning of certain books in American schools. 

Ideas of independence and identity also resonate in societies where gender politics are shifting and individuals are resisting and reshaping traditional beliefs. As Winston attempts to carve an identity for himself in a state where individual memories have been all but erased and the Party controls every person’s narrative, so marginalised communities attempt to have their voices heard and their narratives recorded. 

1984 on stage

It’s no coincidence then that 1984 has been adapted for the stage several times since 2010. The latest 1984 theatre show is an immersive experience, directed by Jack Reardon. This reimagining of the story forces audiences to think about their own complicity in surveillance and the perpetuation of control as they watch the events of the novel unfold. 

The 1984 live show is playing at Hackney Town Hall until 22 December 2022. Book your tickets today with KX Tickets and experience site-specific theatre at its best.