George Orwell Matters! discussion

This folder is for you to post a new thread for any topic or question you like, which is relevant to the group.

You may also link to any papers or books you have written, with an Orwellian connection, here.

So what is exercising your mind at the moment?

Well we relaunched a month ago, but so far no member has created a new thread yet. Do please feel free to use this folder!

The most interesting thing I learned about Orwell this year is that he was 6’ 4” tall. I don’t know about where you all live, but where I come from that is rather noticeable! - )

Isn't it incredible? I think I read that people used to comment on this when he was having to stoop in the bookshop!

Yes! I was stunned when I learned it. To be so talented and tall. Some guys have all the luck. - )

:D Mark!

haha! Great point risen.

For those who have read The Road to Wigan Pier, the parts where Orwell describes how he had to reach the Coalface with the regular pit workers is, at the same time, hilarious and frightening. The way he describes the excruciating pain in his knees from having to crouch for miles through the tunnels, was what made me realise his above average height.

Also, on the front cover of Volume I of his diaries, essays and journalism, he is posing for a picture with members of the P.O.U.M and is visibly head and shoulders taller than the rest - perhaps a factor worth considering when one recalls how was also shot through the throat in Spain. 6'4 is quite the target!

Cool comments, Tom. Thank you. I was not aware of either one. - )

Cheers, Mark!

So ... does this have potential? Would either of you like to create an "Interesting Facts about George Orwell" thread? Or something similar?

What a surprise! It would never have occurred to me that Orwell was anything other than average height. And so I wonder what affect height, or shortage of same, might have on literature. I know Roald Dahl was 6'6" (198cm) and couldn't fit in a Spitfire cockpit, but could squeeze into a Hurricane. Was the BFG created in his own image? On the other hand, H G Wells, at 5'5" (165cm) was known as 'The Fiery Particle.' I have just learned that Maya Angelou was 6'0" (183cm), but Charlotte Bronte stood at 4'10" (147cm). I wonder how tall Louisa May Alcott was?

Wow!

If anyone would like to start their own thread, please feel free to do so here, in this folder.