Keep the Aspidistra Flying

Set in 1930s London, the novel explores Gordon Comstock's struggle against societal norms that idolize wealth and status. His attempt to reject "the money-god" leads to a bleak existence, revealing the absurdity and insanity of this obsession. Through sharp satire, Orwell portrays Gordon as a flawed character whose radical rebellion ultimately proves ineffective, highlighting the complexities of resisting a corrupt system while grappling with one's own moral failures. The narrative critiques both societal pressures and personal choices in a harsh economic landscape.