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
The words kept coming back to him, statement of a mystical truth and a palpable absurdity.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote reflects the paradox of truth and absurdity in human understanding.
George Orwell's quote captures the struggle between recognizing profound truths and grappling with the absurdities of life. It suggests that our perceptions of reality are often intertwined with elements that seem illogical, yet hold deep significance, prompting us to reflect on the nature of existence and understanding.
Themes
TruthAbsurdityUnderstandingRealityParadox
In practice
Example use cases
During a lecture on philosophy, to illustrate the complex nature of truth.
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.
George OrwellRead
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.
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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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If a man cannot tell what he wants to do, then he must find out what he ought to do. If desire has become complicated, then hold fast to duty.
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