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Definition of Idiom
An idiom is a phrase that conveys a figurative meaning that is difficult or impossible to understand based solely on a literal interpretation of the words in the phrase. For... read full definition
An idiom is a phrase that conveys a figurative meaning that is difficult or impossible to understand based solely on a literal interpretation of the... read full definition
An idiom is a phrase that conveys a figurative meaning that is difficult or impossible to understand based solely on... read full definition
Chapter 7
Explanation and Analysis—Propaganda:
Idioms are an important part of the totalitarian World State's linguistic and intellectual control over its population. Most of the idioms that Bernard, Lenina, and other characters repeat are simply propaganda, not formed from organic linguistic processes but instead whispered into their minds and fed to them via test tube. These idioms do not describe real life and are not creative in any way—rather, they serve the controlling purposes of the state. Take, for instance, the following series of idioms Lenina spouts while she and Bernard are on a date in Chapter 7:
‘But cleanliness is next to fordliness,’ she insisted.
‘Yes, and civilization is sterilization,’ Bernard went on, concluding on a tone of irony the second hypnopædic lesson in elementary hygiene.
Certain idioms, however, like the one below, bastardize idioms that existed in society before the totalitarian regime came to power. These idioms intentionally alter word choice and alter meaning to suit the purposes of the ruling class:
‘A gramme in time saves nine,’ said Lenina, producing a bright treasure of sleep-taught wisdom.
"A gramme in time saves nine" is a clear bastardization of "a stitch in time saves nine." The original statement is meant to encourage repair and mending, reminding people that fixing something early on prevents further damage that would necessitate more extensive repair. In a society that pushes overconsumption, the ruling class likely considered this idiom dangerous and changed it to express a sentiment more in line with its oppressive goals.
Related Themes:
