In George Orwell's novel "Keep the Aspidistra Flying," the protagonist, Gordon Comstock, is a poet who struggles against societal expectations and the relentless pursuit of wealth. Disillusioned with the materialism of the world around him, Gordon works at a bookstore while feeling a deep disdain for money and success, believing that they corrupt genuine artistic expression. His choice to reject a stable job for the sake of art keeps him in a state of poverty and despair.
The novel explores themes of class, artistic integrity, and the conflict between idealism and reality. Gordon’s refusal to conform leads him into a downward spiral, where he grapples with his failures and the increasing pressure from his social circle. His relationship with his girlfriend, Rosemary, becomes strained as she represents the conventional aspirations he rejects, highlighting the tension between love and ambition.
More »
Today Birthdays
1946 -
George W. Bush
1907 -
Frida Kahlo
1935 -
Dalai Lama
1921 -
Nancy Reagan
1886 -
Marc Bloch
1987 -
Kate Nash
1958 -
Jennifer Saunders
1927 -
Pat Paulsen
1736 -
Daniel Morgan
1985 -
Ranveer Singh
1954 -
Kathi Appelt
1966 -
Brian Posehn
1980 -
Pau Gasol
1898 -
Hanns Eisler
1951 -
Geoffrey Rush
1994 -
Andrew Benintendi
1923 -
Wojciech Jaruzelski
1951 -
Mickey Kaus
1947 -
Floyd Skloot