Bernard Crick — George Orwell: a Life

Penguin (Non-Classics) 1982 Paperback, 672pp. George Orwell: A Life superbly illuminates the complex relationship between the daily experiences and the monumental writings of this private, often mystifying man who was so intensely 'the wintry conscience of a generation.' 'At times,' says Bernard Crick, 'he almost literally cared for his writing more than his life, certainly more than his comfort and physical well-being.' He died at forty-six, ravaged by tuberculosis after years of overexertion, hardship, and self-neglect. By the time of his death, however, George Orwell (1903-1950) was already a world-renowned writer who had achieved literary fame and success, and not only as a novelist. Many of his political essays and journalistic pieces can claim a place among the great texts of political theory, as well as English literature, their strength and style forged by 'an almost reckless commitment to speak out unwelcome truths' in simple, powerful language. Some foxing, inscription to previous owner on first page. (ISBN: 9780140058567). Fair.