35 pages 1 hour read

George Orwell

Keep the Aspidistra Flying

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1936

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

In Keep the Aspidistra Flying, Gordon Comstock, a middle-class poet rebelling against societal norms and monetary conformity, struggles with poverty while refusing "respectable" jobs. He works at a used bookstore but faces challenges in his personal and romantic life due to his financial situation. The story explores Gordon's internal and external conflicts as he navigates his ideals and reality. Topics include substance abuse and domestic issues involving aggressive behavior.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Keep the Aspidistra Flying by George Orwell captures the struggles of Gordon Comstock, whose disdain for capitalism leads him into poverty. Critics praise Orwell's incisive social commentary and rich character development. However, some find the protagonist's cynicism excessive, making the narrative occasionally bleak. Overall, it's a thought-provoking exploration of personal and societal values.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Keep the Aspidistra Flying?

A reader who enjoys Keep the Aspidistra Flying by George Orwell often appreciates satirical and critical examinations of society, particularly focusing on class struggles and the pursuit of integrity within a capitalist system. Fans of Orwell’s 1984 or Aldous Huxley’s Brave New World may find this novel engaging and thought-provoking.

RecommendedReading Age

18+years

Book Details

Genre

Classic Fiction

Satire

British Literature

Topics

Class

Relationships

History: World

Themes

Society: Economics

Society: Class

Emotions/Behavior: Hate & Anger