George Orwell, Burmese Days: A Provocative Exploration of Imperialism and Prejudice

“Burmese Days” by George Orwell is a powerful novel that delves into the complex dynamics of imperialism, racial prejudice, and personal integrity. Published in 1934, the book draws from Orwell’s own experiences as a colonial officer in Burma (now Myanmar). Set in the waning days of British colonial rule, “Burmese Days” offers a searing critique of the oppressive and dehumanizing nature of imperialism. With its compelling characters, vivid descriptions, and unflinching examination of racial and societal tensions, Orwell’s novel remains a thought-provoking exploration of the darker aspects of human nature and the corrosive effects of power.

Plot and Setting: Provocative “Burmese Days”

“Burmese Days” is set in the fictional town of Kyauktada in Burma, during the 1920s. The novel follows the story of John Flory, a British timber merchant, and his experiences as an expatriate in colonial Burma. Flory becomes disillusioned with the oppressive nature of British rule and develops friendships with local Burmese individuals, particularly Dr. Veraswami.

As the plot unfolds, Orwell skillfully weaves together personal and political conflicts. The arrival of Elizabeth Lackersteen, a beautiful but shallow young woman, ignites tensions among the European community. The narrative gradually escalates, exploring themes of love, loyalty, betrayal, and the inherent contradictions of colonialism.

Exploration of Imperialism

At its core, “Burmese Days” is a scathing critique of British imperialism in Burma. Orwell portrays the exploitative nature of colonial rule and the racial prejudices that underpin it. Through the character of U Po Kyin, a corrupt Burmese magistrate, Orwell highlights the complicity of indigenous individuals in upholding the oppressive system. U Po Kyin’s relentless pursuit of power and his Machiavellian tactics expose the moral decay fostered by imperialism.

Orwell also delves into the dehumanizing effects of imperialism on both the colonizers and the colonized. The Europeans living in Burma, depicted as a group of disillusioned and morally bankrupt individuals, grapple with the emptiness of their lives and the loss of their sense of identity. Meanwhile, the Burmese people are marginalized, disempowered, and subjected to systemic discrimination and cultural erasure.

Racial Prejudice and Identity

“Burmese Days” offers a thought-provoking exploration of racial prejudice and the complexities of identity in a colonial context. The novel exposes the deep-seated racial biases held by the European characters, who view the Burmese people with disdain and condescension. Orwell exposes the hypocrisy and ignorance of the colonial mindset, challenging the notion of inherent racial superiority.

Through the character of Flory, Orwell examines the internal struggles faced by individuals caught between two cultures. Flory’s empathy and genuine friendships with Burmese individuals clash with his own inherent prejudices and the expectations of his colonial peers. Orwell emphasizes the difficulty of breaking free from societal norms and confronting one’s own biases.

Gender and Social Conventions

Orwell addresses gender dynamics and the restrictive social conventions of the time. The character of Elizabeth Lackersteen represents the limited options available to women in a patriarchal society. She is trapped in an unhappy marriage and seeks superficial validation from the European men in Kyauktada. Orwell portrays the damaging effects of oppressive gender roles and the societal pressures faced by women.

Writing Style and Themes

Orwell’s writing style in “Burmese Days” is vivid and evocative. His detailed descriptions bring the Burmese landscape to life, immersing readers in the sights, sounds, and smells of colonial Burma. Orwell’s prose is both introspective and confrontational, urging readers to reflect on the implications of imperialism, racial prejudice, and personal morality.

The themes explored in “Burmese Days” are highly relevant and enduring. Orwell’s critique of imperialism remains a powerful condemnation of the exploitative nature of colonialism and its corrosive impact on both the oppressors and the oppressed. The novel raises profound questions about identity, integrity, and the pursuit of justice in a morally compromised world.

Quotes from “Burmese Days” by George Orwell

1. “The sun never sets on the British Empire. But it rises every morning. The sky must get awfully crowded.”
   • This quote humorously critiques the imperial boast that the sun never sets on the British Empire, suggesting the absurdity and arrogance of imperial dominance. It highlights Orwell’s skepticism towards British imperialism and its self-aggrandizing propaganda.
2. “He wore the expression that so many officials in the East wear: as of a man who is gone teetotal for fear of making a fool of himself in some discreditable way.”
   • This observation reflects the underlying anxieties and pressures of colonial administrators who live in constant fear of losing their dignity or authority in front of the local population. It points to the personal sacrifices and the psychological toll of maintaining British decorum and superiority in a foreign land.
3. “In the end we shall make thoughtcrime literally impossible, because there will be no words in which to express it.”
   • This quote foreshadows Orwell’s later work, “1984,” where he explores the idea of “thoughtcrime” and language control more thoroughly. In the context of “Burmese Days,” it suggests the colonial power’s desire to control not just actions but thoughts and expressions of the colonized, suppressing dissent and resistance through cultural and linguistic dominance.
4. “Beauty is meaningless until it is shared.”
   • This line speaks to the human need for connection and the idea that experiences, including the appreciation of beauty, gain significance through sharing with others. In the context of the novel, it also reflects the isolation and alienation felt by characters trapped in the colonial system, unable to truly share their lives with those they rule over or with each other.
5. “He was conscious of a terrible inner loneliness, and it seemed to him that he had always been alone.”
   • This quote delves into the emotional isolation of the protagonist, Flory, highlighting a common theme in Orwell’s work: the individual’s struggle against an oppressive or indifferent society. In “Burmese Days,” it underscores the moral and existential isolation of those caught in the colonial enterprise, alienated from both their home country and the colonized land.
6. “The essence of being human is that one does not seek perfection.”
   • This quote can be interpreted as a critique of the imperial mindset, which often justified colonialism through a mission to “civilize” and “perfect” the colonized. Orwell suggests that imperfection is inherent to the human condition, and the pursuit of perfection (especially through domination and control) is a misguided, if not dangerous, endeavor.

Trivia Facts about “Burmese Days”

1. Based on Orwell’s Personal Experiences: George Orwell, born Eric Arthur Blair, served in the Indian Imperial Police in Burma from 1922 to 1927. His experiences during this time deeply influenced his views on imperialism and racism, which are central themes in “Burmese Days.” The novel reflects his firsthand observations of the injustices and racial prejudices inherent in the colonial system.
2. Controversial and Delayed Publication: The novel was initially rejected by several publishers, partly due to concerns over its potential to offend the British establishment and the government of Burma. “Burmese Days” was first published in the United States in 1934, and only later, in 1935, was it published in the United Kingdom, with certain names and references altered to avoid legal action.
3. Fictional Kyauktada: The setting of the novel, Kyauktada, is a fictional town in Burma. However, it is believed to be closely modeled on Katha, a real town on the Irrawaddy River where Orwell served. Today, Orwell’s house in Katha still stands and has become something of a pilgrimage site for his fans.
4. Orwell’s Critique of Imperialism: “Burmese Days” is considered one of Orwell’s early expressions of his anti-imperialist views. Through the novel, he depicts the moral decay of the British Empire and its negative impact on both the oppressors and the oppressed. This critique would later be echoed in his more famous works, such as “Animal Farm” and “1984.”
5. Character Inspirations: The characters in “Burmese Days” are believed to be based on people Orwell knew during his time in Burma. John Flory, the protagonist, reflects Orwell’s own disillusionment with imperial rule and his empathy for the Burmese people, while other characters represent various types of colonial officials and their attitudes.
6. Language and Racism: The novel explicitly deals with themes of racism and the dehumanization of colonial subjects. Orwell uses language and dialogue to reveal the casual and institutional racism of the British colonizers, making it a powerful study of prejudice and its effects on society.
7. Impact on Orwell’s Career: Although “Burmese Days” was not a commercial success upon its initial publication, it helped establish Orwell’s reputation as a writer who was unafraid to tackle difficult and controversial topics. The novel laid the groundwork for his later, more widely acclaimed works.
8. Contemporary Relevance: Despite being set in the 1920s, “Burmese Days” remains relevant today as a critique of imperialism and its legacy. It provides insight into the historical roots of contemporary issues in Myanmar and other former colonies, making it a significant work for understanding the impact of colonial rule.

Conclusion Burmese Days

“Burmese Days” by George Orwell is a compelling and thought-provoking novel that exposes the injustices and moral dilemmas of British colonial rule. Through its vivid characters and vividly depicted setting, the novel challenges readers to confront the destructive forces of imperialism, racial prejudice, and societal expectations. Orwell’s unflinching exploration of these themes continues to resonate, reminding us of the importance of empathy, self-reflection, and the fight against oppression. “Burmese Days” stands as a testament to Orwell’s keen insight into the human condition and his unwavering commitment to social justice.