Literature and politics: the incompatible categories

Seen as a form of art, literature is a sphere of universals, indirect modes of expression and emphases on its own formal aspect. In this respect, literature is essentially different from discursive ways of expression, including politics. This, however, does not mean that one cannot make political inferences from literary works; it only means that a political message cannot be part of the essence of a true work of art. The author pays special attention to 1984, by George Orwell, and argues that this novel should not be regarded as an example of political literature. Although it clearly presents a negative picture of a political system, it does not argue for political alternatives to the totalitarian system; all alternatives presented in the novel are depicted as personal and intimate. The author also rejects the view that the evolution of literature is driven by power relationships or political agendas