Desperately Seeking Sebald

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.

The Emigrants, by W. G. Sebald, is a novel that masterfully blends fiction and autobiography. The narrative follows the experiences of four different emigrants, each with their own unique story. The novel explores themes of memory, displacement, and the search for identity. Sebald's unique prose style, characterized by its lyrical quality and incorporation of photographs, creates a haunting and atmospheric reading experience. The novel's structure is non-linear, mirroring the fragmented nature of memory and the difficulty of confronting the past. The Emigrants is a powerful and moving work that leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

This book by Claude Manceron provides a lively and detailed account of Napoleon's 1805 campaign, with a particular emphasis on the Battle of Austerlitz. It is a historical narrative that brings to life the events leading up to and including the battle, which was a significant victory for Napoleon and solidified his claim to the title of Emperor. The book is translated by George Unwin and offers a comprehensive look at one of the most pivotal battles in Napoleonic history.