George Orwell: 'The best books... are those that tell you what you know already.'

The best books... are those that tell you what you know already.

"The best books... are those that tell you what you know already." This quote by George Orwell encapsulates the significance of the familiar in literature. Orwell suggests that the most impactful books are the ones that resonate with readers on a deeper level, revealing truths that they are already aware of. While this notion may seem contradictory at first, it implies that great works of literature have the power to reinforce and validate our own experiences, thoughts, and emotions. However, delving deeper into this quote, it uncovers a broader philosophical concept known as existentialism, which challenges our preconceived notions about knowledge, reality, and personal identity.The straightforward interpretation of Orwell's quote is that the best books are those that speak to us on a personal level, tapping into our shared human experiences. These are the books that seem to understand our innermost thoughts and emotions, offering insights that reaffirm our own understanding of the world. In essence, these books serve as mirrors, reflecting our own lives and giving us a sense of connection and validation.But what if there is more to this quote than meets the eye? What if Orwell's words prompt us to question the very nature of knowledge and the role it plays in our lives? This is where existentialism comes into play. A philosophical movement that emerged in the 19th and 20th centuries, existentialism explores themes of existence, individuality, and the search for meaning in an absurd universe.The existentialist perspective challenges the idea that knowledge is an objective and universal truth. Instead, it posits that knowledge is deeply personal and subjective, rooted in our own unique experiences and interpretations of the world. From this standpoint, the best books are not just those that confirm what we already know but rather those that awaken within us a sense of self-awareness and understanding.Existentialism encourages us to embrace the often uncomfortable truth that our knowledge is limited, and that much of our understanding of the world is constructed through our own biases, perceptions, and experiences. The best books, therefore, are not just comfortingly familiar but also have the power to unsettle and challenge our existing beliefs, pushing us to question and explore our own understanding of reality.In this light, Orwell's quote takes on a new depth and complexity. It emphasizes the importance of books that go beyond mere affirmation, delving into the realms of self-discovery and personal growth. These books provide us with opportunities to expand our awareness, question our assumptions, and venture into the unknown.To illustrate this point, imagine a book that tells the story of a character grappling with existential dilemmas, confronting the uncertainty of their existence, and ultimately discovering their own truths. As readers, we may empathize with the protagonist's struggles, recognizing elements of our own journey within their narrative. This recognition, this familiarity, does not diminish the impact of the book, but rather enhances it, as we feel seen, understood, and challenged to question our own perspectives.In conclusion, George Orwell's quote, "The best books... are those that tell you what you know already," encapsulates the essence of literature's power to connect, validate, and challenge us. At its core, this quote speaks to the desire for familiarity and self-assurance in our reading choices. However, when viewed through the lens of existentialism, it also invites us to explore the limits of our knowledge and confront the mysterious and uncertain nature of our existence. The best books are not just those that provide comfort but ones that push us beyond the boundaries of our knowledge and invite us to engage in a lifelong journey of self-reflection, growth, and discovery.