1984 #1

“How do we know that two and two makes four? Or that the force of gravity works? Or that the past is unchangeable? If both the past and the external world exist only in the mind, and if the mind itself is controllable--what then?” (pg. 80) Orwell explores the idea of life existing only in one’s mind. He challenges his readers to open up their views and think about life and its meaning. Orwell wants people to question why two plus two equals four; is it because we were told it does or because it logically makes sense? The concept of challenging how we view life continues throughout the novel as Winston is tested by Big Brother and the government.