1984 is probably the most well-known and widely quoted dystopian novel. It's a must for fans of the genre. Its iconic nature means that one can overlook some of its flaws ... most prominently, the massive textbook style exposition in the middle. The ideas behind this book never fail to fascinate me every time I read it. 
 This time I read it for a book club, and I'm going to answer my book club questions for it here: 
 Favourite character: I don't have a favourite character. To be honest, it's not really the kind of book where you like any of the characters. Both O'Brien and Winston Smith are fascinating in terms of their thought processes ... but I don't really like them. 
 Favourite quote: Opening line: It was a bright cold day in April, and the clocks were striking thirteen. 
 As a point of interest, when I read this as a teen, the clocks striking thirteen struck me as being reminscent of fantasy. These days, the twenty four hour clock throughout felt normal. 
 Least favourite character: Probably Mr Charrington.(view spoiler)[ It annoyed me the way he betrayed them whilst pretending to be on their side. Yes, I know O'Brien did too, but Mr Charrington really fooled me the first time I read it. I was shocked to find out he was actually one of the thought police. (hide spoiler)] 
 Would I change the story? (view spoiler)[Well, I'd like to have seen the Party overthrown, but then that would have undermined the entire point. So, no. (hide spoiler)] 
 Do you see this type of government in today's government? Do you think this is where we are headed? I see little aspects of 1984s society in today's society. The phrase Big Brother is watching has passed into everyday life. And there is no doubt that increased surveillance, both physical and online, has reduced privacy. However, I can't ever see a time in Britain when democracy would be completely overcome by a system like IngSoc. Free speech is a concept that I can't see anyone willing to give up. And whilst privacy can be monitored, I don't envison a time when thoughtcrime will really be a thing. I sincerely hope not, anyway. 
 A good read, and one that will keep you thinking long after you've read it.