Analysing Class structure with Darren McGarvey

Published in 1949, '1984' is a cautionary tale by George Orwell that explores the dangers of totalitarianism. The novel is set in a dystopian future where the world is divided into three super-states, with the protagonist Winston Smith living in Oceania, ruled by the mysterious and omnipotent leader Big Brother. Winston works at the Ministry of Truth, where he rewrites historical records to conform to the Party's ever-changing narrative. He begins an illicit love affair with Julia and starts to rebel against the Party, but they are eventually caught and subjected to brutal torture and indoctrination. The novel highlights themes of government surveillance, manipulation of language and history, and the suppression of individual freedom and independent thought.

In 'The Distance Between Us', Reyna Grande recounts her early life in Mexico, where she was left behind by her parents who migrated to the United States. The memoir details her experiences living with her abusive grandmother, the eventual reunion with her parents in the U.S. , and the challenges she faced adapting to a new country. The book explores themes of family, identity, and the immigrant experience, highlighting the emotional and physical distances between family members separated by borders and personal struggles.