If one harbours anywhere in one's mind a nationalistic loyalty or hatred, certain facts, although in a sense known to be true, are inadmissible.
George OrwellRead
Political chaos is connected with the decay of language... one can probably bring about some improvement by starting at the verbal end.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The decay of language contributes to political disorder, and improving language can lead to political improvement.
In this quote, George Orwell suggests that the deterioration of language is linked to the disarray in politics. He posits that by refining language and expressing ideas more clearly, one might instigate positive changes in the political realm, implying that our ability to communicate effectively is vital for a functional society.
Themes
LanguagePoliticsCommunicationClarityImprovement
In practice
Example use cases
During a speech about the importance of clear communication in politics.
More from George Orwell
All quotes βThe creatures outside looked from pig to man, and from man to pig, and from pig to man again; but already it was impossible to say which was which.
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Political writing in our time consists almost entirely of prefabricated phrases bolted together like the pieces of a child's Meccano set. It is the unavoidable result of self-censorship. To write in plain, vigorous language one has to think fearlessly, and if one thinks fearlessly one cannot be politically orthodox.
George OrwellRead
Not to expose your true feelings to an adult seems to be instinctive from the age of seven or eight onwards.
George OrwellRead
As with the Christian religion, the worst advertisement for Socialism is its adherents.
George OrwellRead
It is fatal to look hungry. It makes people want to kick you.
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