The Future? Eh, doesn' t matter, the world ends in 2012 right?

(1984, George Orwell)

"How could you communicate with the future?It was of its nature impossible. Either the future would resemble the present, in which case it would not listen to him, or it would be different from it and his predicament would be meaningless" (page 9).

Literary Term: Theme

This major theme is displayed within ten pages of the book; it is a critical struggle and message of the book. The difficulty of communicating with the future in this society has two elements: the physical and mental contributions towards helping the future. As shown in the above except portrays the mental complications of reaching the future, from insecurity to fear of change. However the major feat of this theme is the physical actions required to pass information to future generations. The description and attitude Winston has towards using the book and the possible consequences of doing so display the inability of doing so. The concept that history is nonexistent is a major theme of this book shown through the memory holes, Records Department, and the following quote:

" Nothing was your own except the few cubic centimeters inside your skull" (page 27).

There is a call to separate one's mind and the fabricated world of the Party, especially when it comes to recalling history. Winston realises this early on as he reflects on the true war nature of his nation and impact of his job in changing history. Changing history and helping the future are major themes of this piece.