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
Records told the same tale, then the lie passed into history and became truth.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Historical narratives can be manipulated to create accepted truths from lies.
This quote by George Orwell suggests that the process of recording events can be influenced by those in power, who may distort the truth. Over time, these distortions can become ingrained in history, shaping our collective understanding and belief despite their origins as falsehoods.
Themes
TruthLieHistoryNarrativeManipulation
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about historical revisions, this quote emphasizes the importance of questioning the narratives we accept.
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.
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Not to expose your true feelings to an adult seems to be instinctive from the age of seven or eight onwards.
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As with the Christian religion, the worst advertisement for Socialism is its adherents.
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It is fatal to look hungry. It makes people want to kick you.
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