" As I write, highly civilized human beings are flying overhead, trying to kill me. "
- George Orwell

When George Orwell wrote those words, he was describing a scene where airplanes were flying overhead, possibly during wartime conditions. This literal interpretation suggests a time when people might be under threat from aerial attacks, reflecting the anxieties and vulnerabilities that arise in such circumstances.

Beyond its surface meaning, this quote encapsulates the broader theme of surveillance and oppression Orwell often addressed in his work. The image of planes flying above can symbolize the ever-present scrutiny and potential for violence wielded by those in power over ordinary citizens. This idea resonates with Orwell's critique of totalitarianism and authoritarian regimes, where governments use technology and control to monitor and suppress their populations. By using the metaphor of airplanes trying to "kill" him, Orwell highlights the pervasive fear and helplessness individuals might feel under such systems.

George Orwell was a British writer known for his literary works that often explored political themes and social issues through sharp critique and vivid imagery. His most famous novels include "1984" and "Animal Farm," both of which delve into dystopian societies where power is centralized, freedom is suppressed, and individualism is threatened. Orwell's writing frequently reflected on the dangers of totalitarianism and the erosion of personal liberties, making him a prominent voice in 20th-century literature and political discourse.