"I Will Work Harder"

I just finished Animal Farm by George Orwell (I know, I know. Another book review??? I can't help it. I love to read and I currently have the time, so I drink books in like the sand soaks up the ocean).

Anyway, the book is actually Tim's. He is supposed to read it for English. I was shocked to realize I have never read it myself, so I decided I would read it too. I'm glad I did. For some odd reason, Orwell's writing reminds me of Salinger's The Catcher in the Rye or Joseph Heller's Catch 22. Perhaps I feel this way because they are all written in the same general time period (Animal Farm was published in 1946, The Catcher in the Rye 1951 and Catch 22 1953). Orwell's novel has a profound message though, one easy to comprehend and understand. His plot details how a society determined to make a better life for its members is capable of being changed into a state of terrible dictatorship. The way in which the animals were slowly dragged from freedom to slavery is sad, but acts as a good allegory to how corruption begins and flourishes.

The part that struck me the hardest was the fate of Boxer, the strong work-horse who helped the farm become so successful. His motto, "I will work harder," is a brilliant statement showcasing a person with stamina, regard for others and confidence that one can make a difference. His motto is a good way to think about how to live one's life, but it is also important to know and understand what cause one is working for. Boxer's blindness in this respect led to his sorrowful demise and acts as a reminder that even the strong can be taken in as a fool.

Note to self: always work hard, expect that you can always work harder, but don't be a sucker. Oh, and stay away from mean smarty-pants pigs.