By
stating that the clocks were striking thirteen in the first sentence, the narrator immediately
establishes that we are dealing with a different reality. The reader is also immediately
introduced to the giant face of Big Brother with his large mustache, hanging not only on s
apartment wall but also on the landing of each floor in his building and every corner on the
street outside. The mention of Hate Week and the menacing motto, Big Brother is Watching You,
also set a negative tone that is echoed by the mention of numerous inconveniences, such as a
broken lift (elevator). We soon learn the three other mottos, which are oxymorons such as war
is peace. Another important feature is Winstons attempt to evade Big Brothers watchful eye; he
hides in a corner where the all-seeing telescreen cannot reach and writes in a secret diary
although doing so is punishable by imprisonment.
By the end of the book,
Winston has undergone a complete transformation, a healing change. He has done penance and
dreams of being in the Ministry of Love, with everything forgiven, his soul white as snow, and
even of his execution. He is cured of any desires to do anything surreptitious or illegal. His
struggle to be an individual and resist the states power has ended. He loved Big
Brother.
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