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Pink Floyd and Orwell: The Power of Animal Metaphors
Animals have long been used as symbols and metaphors in literature, art and music. They can represent different aspects of human nature, such as innocence, loyalty, cunning, greed, power and oppression. Two of the most famous examples of using animals to critique human society are George Orwell’s novel Animal Farm and Pink Floyd’s album The Wall.
Table of Contents
Novel “Animal Farm” – George Orwell
Animal Farm is a dystopian satire that depicts a group of farm animals who rebel against their human owner and establish a socialist society. However, the pigs, who are the leaders of the rebellion, gradually become corrupted by power and betray the ideals of the revolution. They start to act like humans, walking on two legs, wearing clothes, drinking alcohol and exploiting the other animals. The novel is an allegory of the Russian Revolution and the rise of Stalinism, showing how a noble cause can be corrupted by totalitarianism.
Album “The Wall” – Pink Floyd
The Wall is a rock opera that tells the story of Pink, a depressed and alienated rock star who isolates himself from the world behind a metaphorical wall. The album explores various themes such as childhood trauma, war, education, consumerism, fascism and mental illness. One of the most memorable songs on the album is “Pigs (Three Different Ones)”, which uses pigs as a symbol of the greedy and hypocritical elites who control society. The song criticizes three types of pigs: the moralizing religious leaders, the ruthless businessmen and the oppressive political leaders. The song also features a famous image of a giant inflatable pig flying over Battersea Power Station in London.
Exposure of the Flaws of Human Society
Both Animal Farm and The Wall use animals to expose the flaws of human society and to challenge the status quo. They show how humans can be manipulated, exploited and oppressed by those in power, and how they can lose their individuality and freedom. They also show how art can be a powerful tool for social commentary and political resistance.