Burmese Days

Philip French of the Observer described Orwell as ‘the greatest writer of the twentieth century.’

Burmese days was Orwell’s first novel, and was issued in 1934 in America, then a year later in the UK where there had been fears and controversy initially that the material may be libellous.

The story is largely based on Orwell’s own experiences as a police officer in Burma. Set in the dying days of the Raj, it depicts the harshness and darker side of colonial rule. And at its centre is John Flory, a lone individual hopelessly trapped in a vast political system; themes which set the agenda for much of his writing.

Over time Orwell’s writing has lost none of its human and political relevance. With Burma’s battle for democracy now regularly in the news, Burmese days will continue to draw new listeners and significances in 2012 and beyond.