You've Got Double Vision

(1984, George Orwell)

Literary Term: Motivation

Prior to really meeting Julia, Wilston considers her to a spy and devote follower of the Party, like most women of the society. He even thinks she is spying on him and will turn him in. However, in the touching scene with the note-hand-off, Wilston realises that she loves him rather than wishes to see his end. The motivation for which Julia grows to like Wilston seems to be the precise reasons why he thought she was going to turn him in. Her love and desire for Wilston is rooted in his growing separation in mind and action from the Party. One of the first examples of this is defined with the following quote:

"Suddenly his heart seemed to turn to ice and his bowels to water. A figure in blue overalls was coming down the pavement, not ten maters away. It was the girl from the Fiction Department, the girl with the dark hair" (page 100)

It is entertaining to reflect on Wilston's reaction to this situation after Julia confesses her feelings. This passage shows Julia's interest in individuals and small revolt against the Party, shown in her interest in Wilston's trip to the shop. Her motives lie in personal gain, excitement, and cunning actions all three voids Wilston can fill.