“The Paris slums are a gathering-place for eccentric people – people who have fallen into solitary, half-mad grooves of life and given up trying to be normal or decent. Poverty frees them from ordinary standards of behaviour, just as money frees people from work.”
“There is only one way to make money at writing, and that is to marry a publisher’s daughter.”
The incomparable George Orwell shares experiences of living in poverty in two of the world's most renowned cities. Published in 1933, "Down and Out in Paris and London" serves as a fascinating social commentary on the contrasting perception of "tramping" and luxury.
“It is curious how people take it for granted that they have a right to preach at you and pray over you as soon as your income falls below a certain level.”
“I believe that this instinct to perpetuate useless work is, at bottom, simply fear of the mob. The mob (the thought runs) are such low animals that they would be dangerous if they had leisure; it is safer to keep them too busy to think.”
The author's insights into the seedy underbellies of these hallowed places borders on the shocking. For the discerning reader, this account can be accurately described as the original "Kitchen Confidential."
“Roughly speaking, the more one pays for food, the more sweat and spittle one is obliged to eat with it.”
The memoir is tragic, hilarious, revelatory, and moving at various times. Even if this work serves more as a travel book, the seeds of "1984" and "Animal Farm" are apparent in Orwell's memorable observations and turns of phrase.
“Still I can point to one or two things I have definitely learned by being hard up. I shall never again think that all tramps are drunken scoundrels, nor expect a beggar to be grateful when I give him a penny, nor be surprised if men out of work lack energy, nor subscribe to the Salvation Army, nor pawn my clothes, nor refuse a handbill, nor enjoy a meal at a smart restaurant. That is a beginning.”
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