Questions for Discussion

1. George Orwell argues against the “belief that language is a natural growth and not an instrument which we shape for our own purposes” (para. 1). Explain why you do or do not agree with Orwell’s position.

   Chapter 10 - Politics and the English Language - Questions for Discussion: George Orwell argues against the “belief that language is a natural growth and not an instrument which we shape for our own purposes” (para. 1). Explain why you do or do not agree with Orwell’s position.
2. In speeches by contemporary politicians, find examples of each type of writing problem that Orwell discusses: dying metaphors, operators or verbal false limbs, pretentious diction, and meaningless words. Explain why the examples you’ve cited are “swindles and perversions,” as Orwell calls them (para. 9).

   Chapter 10 - Politics and the English Language - Questions for Discussion: In speeches by contemporary politicians, find examples of each type of writing problem that Orwell discusses: dying metaphors, operators or verbal false limbs, pretentious diction, and meaningless words. Explain why the examples you’ve cited are “swindles and perversions,” as Orwell calls them (para. 9).
3. Why does Orwell object to “ready-made phrases” and “mixed metaphors” (para. 12)?

   Chapter 10 - Politics and the English Language - Questions for Discussion: Why does Orwell object to “ready-made phrases” and “mixed metaphors” (para. 12)?
4. In paragraph 12, Orwell says that every writer “ask[s] himself at least four questions, thus: What am I trying to say? What words will express it? What image or idiom will make it clearer? Is this image fresh enough to have an effect?” What do you think of these questions? Do you agree or disagree that they are the most essential questions for writers to ask themselves? Explain why.

   Chapter 10 - Politics and the English Language - Questions for Discussion: In paragraph 12, Orwell says that every writer “ask[s] himself at least four questions, thus: What am I trying to say? What words will express it? What image or idiom will make it clearer? Is this image fresh enough to have an effect?” What do you think of these questions? Do you agree or disagree that they are the most essential questions for writers to ask themselves? Explain why.
5. What does Orwell mean when he asserts, “But if thought corrupts language, language can also corrupt thought” (para. 16)?

   Chapter 10 - Politics and the English Language - Questions for Discussion: What does Orwell mean when he asserts, “But if thought corrupts language, language can also corrupt thought” (para. 16)?
6. Do you agree with Orwell that “correct grammar and syntax . . . are of no importance so long as one makes one’s meaning clear” (para. 18)? Explain. If you do agree, cite examples from your own experience or reading that support your position.

   Chapter 10 - Politics and the English Language - Questions for Discussion: Do you agree with Orwell that “correct grammar and syntax . . . are of no importance so long as one makes one’s meaning clear” (para. 18)? Explain. If you do agree, cite examples from your own experience or reading that support your position.