Orwell was arguably one of the first 'gonzo' journalists. In this unabridged, enlightening and often shocking expose of life on the streets of two of Europe's most romanticised and celebrated cities, Orwell describes in detail the day-to-day life of a 'down-and-out', which involves hunger, filth, derision and often prejudice and violence. Alcohol is also a staple distraction on both sides of the channel for the destitute, and Orwell's comments on issues such as the emasculation of a man when he becomes a tramp (women see him as 'less than' a man and will not interact with him) are truly fascinating.

Down and Out in Paris and London is a sharp social analysis of what he saw in Paris and in London. In this novel Orwell describes in vigorous passion, poverty, degrading work and unemployment while telling the story of his adventures like his search for work, his job as a dishwasher, his retrun to England, tramping in and around London. He is equally obsessed with how to survive on six francs a day. However, a major theme in the book is the desirability and dignity of work. Reviewers praised his honesty, his sensitive social consciousness and his practical suggestions for alleviation of poverty.

 

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