Orwell versus Trump

In 1949, George Orwell wrote in his book, 1984: “Past events, it is argued, have no objective existence, but survive only in written records and in human memories. The past is whatever the records and the memories agree upon. And since the Party is in full control of all records and in equally full control of the minds of its members, it follows that the past is whatever the Party chooses to make it.” He also wrote: “The party told you to reject the evidence of your eyes and ears. It was their final, most essential command.”

On July 25, President Donald Trump told an audience in Kansas City: “… and just remember, what you’re seeing and what you’re reading is not what’s happening. … Just stick with us. Don’t believe the crap you’ll see from these people, the fake news.”

Another 1984 excerpt reads: “One of these days, thought Winston with sudden deep conviction, Syme will be vaporized. He is too intelligent. He sees too clearly and speaks too plainly. The Party does not like such people. One day he will disappear.”

Last week President Trump announced that certain former intelligence officials, who are on the air with certain news agencies, are at risk of losing their security clearances.

There are numerous other parallels between 1984 and our current president and his “Party” that you can find on your own.

TED HOOD JR.

Fairfield Bay