One-line Summary:

Keep the Aspidistra Flying is a satirical novel by George Orwell that explores the struggles of a young poet as he rejects societal expectations and pursues his passion for writing.

The Protagonist’s Rebellion Against Society

Gordon Comstock, the protagonist of Keep the Aspidistra Flying, is a young poet who despises the materialistic and conformist nature of society in 1930s London. Frustrated by the commercialization of art and the pressure to pursue a stable career, Gordon decides to rebel against societal expectations and live a life dedicated to his passion for writing. He quits his well-paying job at an advertising agency and takes up a low-paying position at a bookstore, believing that poverty will free him from the shackles of conformity.

The Struggle Between Art and Money

As Gordon embraces poverty, he soon realizes the harsh realities of living without money. He becomes obsessed with his lack of funds, constantly worrying about how to pay for basic necessities. Gordon’s disdain for money clashes with his desire to be a successful writer, leading to a constant internal struggle. He believes that by rejecting money and material possessions, he can maintain his artistic integrity. However, this struggle becomes increasingly difficult as he witnesses the success of his friends who have chosen more conventional paths and are financially stable.

Love and Relationships in a Materialistic World

Throughout the novel, Gordon’s relationships are heavily influenced by his disdain for money and societal expectations. He becomes involved with Rosemary, a fellow rebel against societal norms, who shares his contempt for materialism. However, their relationship becomes strained as they struggle to make ends meet and their dreams of artistic success seem increasingly unattainable. Gordon’s fear of being tied down by financial responsibilities and his obsession with maintaining his artistic purity ultimately drive a wedge between him and Rosemary.

Gordon’s relationship with his family also reflects the tension between art and money. His sister, Julia, marries a wealthy man, which further highlights Gordon’s resentment towards the pursuit of financial stability. He sees his family as sellouts, choosing money over their passions, and this deepens his resolve to reject societal expectations.

Key Takeaways:

• Keep the Aspidistra Flying satirizes the conflict between art and money, highlighting the challenges faced by artists who reject societal norms.
• The novel explores the internal struggle of the protagonist as he tries to balance his passion for writing with the need for financial stability.
• It critiques the materialistic nature of society and the pressure to conform to societal expectations.
• The book emphasizes the importance of pursuing one’s passions, even in the face of financial hardship.

“Money! Who ever has enough money? Who ever has enough of anything? We all want what we haven’t got.” – George Orwell, Keep the Aspidistra Flying

In Keep the Aspidistra Flying, George Orwell masterfully portrays the conflict between art and money, capturing the struggles faced by individuals who reject societal expectations in pursuit of their passions. The novel serves as a critique of materialism and highlights the challenges artists face in maintaining their integrity while navigating a world driven by financial stability. Ultimately, it reminds us of the importance of staying true to ourselves and our passions, even in the face of adversity.