Big Brother, Thoughtcrime, and the Power of Truth – Unpacking 1984

What happens when the government controls everything—even your thoughts? In this episode, we dive into 1984 by George Orwell, a chilling dystopian novel that still feels shockingly relevant today. We’ll explore the world of Oceania, dissect themes like surveillance, propaganda, and freedom, and ask why Orwell’s vision continues to resonate decades later. Whether you’re reading 1984 for class or revisiting it as an adult, this episode will open your eyes to the power—and danger—of controlling truth.

1984 by George Orwell is one of the titles chosen for the 2026 America's Battle of the Books high school level. The book was published in 1949, but is eerily relevant to the present day. You can see a video version on my YouTube channel @BOBQC