1000 Books Before You Die discussion

Burmese Days by George Orwell

This is one of our February 2018 reads. What are your thoughts?

That's great. I have the book ready to begin! 😃

I started this for a different Guardian 1000 group, and I have to say the first two chapters, at least, are the worst thing Orwell ever wrote.

At least that's the impression I got.

One is inclined to cut Orwell lots of slack, of course.

I've reserved it from my library.

Christopher, why do you say that? Is it boring or badly written? Or both?

Without saying too much, it seems very bookish and trite.. the Eurasian villain in the first chapter, and the seedy club in chapter two, with one guy in particular ranting about race.
It's supposed to be tedious, but Orwell goes on and on even after the point has been made.
I think it gets better after that.

I gave up after one chapter the first time I tried reading it. I will get back to it eventually, but this month I am reading the other book.

I gave up after chapter 1 too. I just can't get into it and there are other books wanting to be read so I'm going to have to pass this month. I remember readung Down and Out in Paris and London by Orwell and it was much more interesting.

Has anyone finished it?

Thanks for the reminder.

I put this aside, but I have time now to start reading again.

I got to the end of ch. 6, and it is much better after the first two chapters.

My Kindle says 30 percent. Probably too early to determine.

Something someone said sometime makes me think disaster is looming.

Camille wrote: "I gave up after chapter 1 too. I just can't get into it and there are other books wanting to be read so I'm going to have to pass this month. I remember readung [book:Down and Out in Paris and Lond..."

Yes, I finished it!, Camille! You can read my thoughts here if you like.

I have just finished the book and can see why some people didn't like it--the characters.
I find the writing excellent and Orwell is good at creating the atmosphere of the times. It is based on his actual experiences in Burma. I think he was probably very happy to leave the place behind him when he left.

I agree, Rosemarie. It's difficult to empathise with the characters but it's honest and, as you say, well written.