The Essay

This is George Orwell's controversial essay on the state of language use -- and misuse -- in the mid-twentieth century. Originally rejected for publication, now often considered a classic, it's worth considering the rules he puts forward and the reasons he gives in favour of following these rules.

As an essay, can you identify its main point? Can you identify some of the reasons he gives in favour of that main point? How do you feel about the rules and the analysis he offers?

Discuss your answers in the forum at the end of this module.

An alternative download of the original article is can be found here.