Chapters 5-7

Chapters 5-7 Analysis:

In these chapters, we learn more about the official language of Oceania, Newspeak. We find that instead of adding and creating new words and ways of communication, they are limiting the language by throwing out words and narrowing the range of thought so much that committing thoughtcrime is nearly impossible. By controlling the language, the Party can also control thought easier which inevitably leads to controlling others’ actions as well. This idea of restriction on communication relates to one of the basic and most important rights that people have, the freedom of speech. Not only does the Party control speech and thought, but also the relationships human beings can have with one another. Winston wants to experience a passionate relationship but knows that can never happen in his society, which adds fire to his inner rebellion. The act of a revolution is mentioned, and it is said that the only hope of one happening is if the proles, who take up a majority of the population, finally decide to rise up against the Party. This touches on one major theme of the novel in which the working class of Communist countries may outnumber their leaders, but if they don’t recognize and utilize their potential and their power, then they shall remain weak. Winston begins to question what is right and what is wrong as he reminisces on a time that he had caught the Party in a lie. He begins to think about one of the novel’s main themes: freedom is when you get to decide what you think is right and what is wrong.