3 ms·
Homage remains one of my five favorite books of all time. It is rare to read a story that is true and full of political insight, yet also so gripping. Even the
by lkrubner 11y ago
Homage remains one of my five favorite books of all time. It is rare to read a story that is true and full of political insight, yet also so gripping. Even the parts about boredom (which seems to come up in any war) seemed full of tension, since so much was changing. The alliances of factions that fought for the Spanish government was ever shifting, and Orwell had given his loyalty to a faction that was losing out, even among those who were fighting for the government (the Soviet factions were gaining power and putting pressure on other left factions). It's a rare combination of features for a book.
- Tiksi 11y agoAgreed. 1984 gets all the attention and is the first thing anyone thinks when they hear "Orwell" but I think Homage to Catalonia was a much more interesting book and explored political ideas at a much deeper level than 1984. Don't get me wrong, they both have a spot in my top 10, but sadly Homage is relatively unheard of in comparison while (imho) being a better book.
- dave2000 11y agoHomage, though, requires some background knowledge of the war, and of the history leading up to the war. Whereas anyone can pick up 1984.
- ArkyBeagle 11y agoThe one that hit me like a thunderbolt was "Burmese Days". I need to reread "Catalonia" though.