The Milk and Honey Done Run Out

Down and Out in Paris and London
George Orwell

Why, I wonder, in reading a book set in early 20th century London and Paris,  did I find my mind wandering ever closer to home and New York during the same era?

I’m always the first to point out that reading helps me connect things otherwise unconnected. So what I was

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England’s Mr. Blair and the Working Poor

The Road to Wigan Pier
George Orwell

George-Orwell (1903-1950)

I hate to start with a cheap trick but I fear it’s just too easy to pigeon-hole George Orwell–born Eric Arthur Blair for those who didn’t know. That’s the downside of assigning Animal Farm in high school as it was back in the 70s.  I’m not sure that’s still done; I’m equally uncertain  anyone then seeks out 1984 now that the date is safely past.

What I am certain of is that anyone who stops with those two books is denying themselves an