Meaning: This quote by George Orwell speaks to the inhibiting effect of orthodoxy, or strict adherence to established beliefs or practices, on prose and particularly on the novel as a literary form. Orwell, a renowned English novelist, essayist, and critic, was known for his strong views on the impact of political and social structures on creative expression. In this quote, he suggests that when writers feel constrained by orthodoxy, their prose suffers, and the novel, which he views as a form of literature inherently resistant to conformity, is particularly harmed.

Orwell's assertion that the atmosphere of orthodoxy is damaging to prose reflects a belief that creativity and originality are stifled when writers feel compelled to adhere to established norms or dogmas. Prose, as a form of written language that lacks the metrical structure of poetry, is often seen as a vehicle for conveying complex ideas and emotions in a more direct and straightforward manner. When writers are restricted by orthodoxy, whether it be in the form of strict grammatical rules, conventional storytelling techniques, or societal expectations, their ability to innovate and challenge conventional thinking can be compromised.

Furthermore, Orwell's claim that orthodoxy is completely ruinous to the novel emphasizes his view of the novel as a uniquely anarchical form of literature. Unlike poetry, which often adheres to specific forms and structures, or non-fiction, which is bound by factual accuracy, the novel is a genre that revels in its ability to defy conventions, question authority, and explore the complexities of human experience. Orwell's use of the term "anarchical" to describe the novel suggests that he sees it as a form of literature that thrives on rebellion, disorder, and the subversion of established norms.

In the context of Orwell's own literary output, this quote can be seen as a reflection of his own commitment to challenging orthodoxy in both his fiction and non-fiction works. His most famous novels, such as "Nineteen Eighty-Four" and "Animal Farm," are known for their searing critiques of totalitarianism, propaganda, and the abuse of power. These works demonstrate Orwell's belief in the novel as a vehicle for exposing the dangers of orthodoxy and advocating for individual freedom and autonomy.

Furthermore, Orwell's quote can be understood in the broader historical and cultural context of his time. Orwell lived through a period of significant social and political upheaval, including the rise of totalitarian regimes in Europe and the ongoing struggle for decolonization in various parts of the world. In this context, his skepticism towards orthodoxy can be seen as a response to the dangers of authoritarianism and the suppression of free thought and expression.

In conclusion, George Orwell's quote about the damaging effects of orthodoxy on prose and the novel offers valuable insight into his views on the relationship between creativity and established norms. By highlighting the novel as a form of literature that thrives on anarchical tendencies, Orwell invites us to consider the importance of challenging orthodoxy in our pursuit of artistic and intellectual freedom. This quote serves as a reminder of the enduring relevance of Orwell's ideas and the enduring power of the novel as a medium for resisting conformity and advocating for individual autonomy.