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Notes Why I Write

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462 views4 pages

Notes Why I Write

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emfatima25
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NOTES

Why I Write
by George Orwell
1. Summarize “Why I Write” in not more than 200 words.

In "Why I Write," George Orwell reflects on his motivations and the driving forces
behind his writing. He identifies four primary motives that inspire writers: sheer egoism,
aesthetic enthusiasm, historical impulse, and political purpose. Orwell discusses how
these motives have evolved and influenced his work over time.

Firstly, he acknowledges that egoism plays a role in writing, as many writers


seek recognition and validation. Aesthetic enthusiasm is the second motive, where
writers are drawn to the beauty and power of language, and they aim to create art
through their words.

The historical impulse is the desire to document and preserve the world as it
changes. Orwell also mentions the political purpose as a motive, emphasizing the
importance of using writing as a tool for conveying political and social messages. He
highlights the significance of clear, honest language in political writing and how it can
expose and combat the abuse of power and manipulation of truth.

Orwell concludes by stating that these motives often coexist within a writer and
can change over time. He shares his own experiences and how his motives shifted,
especially his growing commitment to political writing. In essence, "Why I Write" is a
self-reflective essay in which George Orwell explores the motivations and purposes that
drive him to write, offering valuable insights into the mind of a writer.

2. Explain Aesthetic Enthusiasm.

Aesthetic Enthusiasm, as discussed by George Orwell in his essay "Why I Write," is


one of the key motivations that drive writers to create. It represents a profound
appreciation for the beauty and power of language and a desire to use words to craft
literary works that are, in themselves, works of art.
Orwell explains that this motive often inspires writers to create not just for the
sake of conveying a message or making a point but because they are captivated by the
act of writing itself. They are drawn to the sheer joy of constructing sentences,
paragraphs, and narratives that are aesthetically pleasing. This passion for language and
its potential for artistry fuels their creative process.

Writers motivated by aesthetic enthusiasm may be deeply invested in the form


and style of their writing. They take great care in selecting the right words, crafting
sentences with rhythm and resonance, and structuring their work in a way that is not
only communicative but also artistically satisfying. They seek to elicit emotions and
appreciation from their readers through the sheer beauty of their prose.

Aesthetic enthusiasm often results in literary works that transcend their practical
purpose. These writers are not content with mere communication; they aspire to create
a piece of art. Orwell himself, known for his clarity and precision of language,
demonstrates this motive in his own writing. His novels, essays, and journalism are not
only vehicles for ideas but also exemplify a deep appreciation for the art of expression.

In "Why I Write," Orwell's discussion of aesthetic enthusiasm highlights the


significance of the aesthetic dimension in the craft of writing. It serves as a reminder
that writing is not solely a tool for communication but can also be a means of artistic
self-expression, and that the pursuit of beauty in language is a powerful motivator for
many writers.

3. Can mankind exist without “Sheer Egoism”?

In George Orwell's essay "Why I Write," he acknowledges that sheer egoism is one of
the primary motives that drive writers, but it's important to understand that the presence
of egoism in human nature extends beyond the realm of writing. Sheer egoism, in the
context of the essay, refers to the desire for recognition, attention, and validation. It is
a fundamental aspect of human psychology, and it can manifest in various ways in
everyday life.

While Orwell focuses on the role of egoism in the creative process, it is worth
noting that egoism is not inherently negative. It can serve as a driving force for
individuals to achieve their goals and contribute to society. In fact, many achievements,
from artistic creations to scientific discoveries, are rooted in a desire for recognition and
success. Egoism can lead to ambition, innovation, and the pursuit of excellence.

However, unchecked and extreme egoism can indeed be detrimental. It can result
in selfishness, arrogance, and a lack of empathy for others. A society in which sheer
egoism is the predominant motivator might struggle with issues related to inequality,
self-centeredness, and a lack of cooperation.

In "Why I Write," Orwell does not suggest that mankind should exist without
egoism; instead, he highlights the need for a balance between egoism and other motives,
such as aesthetic enthusiasm and political purpose. Ultimately, individuals and societies
can coexist with egoism, but it's essential to temper it with a sense of responsibility,
empathy, and a broader perspective to create a more harmonious and equitable world.
So, while mankind may not be able to exist without egoism, it can strive to harness it
for positive ends while mitigating its potential negative consequences.

4. Discuss the essay as a biography of Orwell’s writing life.

George Orwell's essay "Why I Write" serves as a biographical exploration of his writing
life, offering readers a profound insight into the evolution of his motivations and the
driving forces behind his literary career. Through this essay, Orwell provides a personal
narrative that mirrors his own life experiences as a writer.

Orwell identifies four distinct motives that have shaped his writing journey:
sheer egoism, aesthetic enthusiasm, the historical impulse, and political purpose. He
reflects on how these motives influenced him at different stages of his life.

In his early years, sheer egoism played a significant role. Orwell sought
recognition and validation through his writing, a motive that is common among many
budding writers. As he matured, aesthetic enthusiasm became increasingly important.
He developed a deep appreciation for the beauty and artistry of language, which is
evident in the clarity and precision of his prose.
The historical impulse, Orwell's desire to document and capture the world as it
changed, is reflective of his experiences as a witness to significant historical events,
such as the Spanish Civil War and World War II. These experiences profoundly shaped
his writing and the themes he explored.

Orwell's growing commitment to political purpose, particularly his advocacy for


clear and honest language in political writing, culminated in his most influential works,
such as "Animal Farm" and "Nineteen Eighty-Four." His writing became a powerful
tool for conveying political and social messages, reflecting his concerns about
totalitarianism and the abuse of power.

In "Why I Write," George Orwell offers readers not just a glimpse into his
motivations but also a biography of his intellectual and literary growth. This essay helps
us understand the various phases of his writing life and how his motives evolved,
making it a valuable resource for those interested in the man behind some of the most
significant works of the 20th century.

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