A Clockwork Orange (Book)

Guide Note:

A Clockwork Orange is a 1962 novel set in a futuristic economically depressed England and follows the story of a sociopathic anti-hero named Alex de Large. The novel is distinct for its use of a fictional language invented by Burgess called "Nadsat" which is a blend of words from Russian, Polari, Cockney slang, and wholly author-invented terms. The protagonist Alex and his friends (called in the novel "droogs") wander amidst the debris of post-industrial England, committing petty—and some not-so-petty—crimes.

Brief Summary

The book is narrated by a fifteen-year old Alex, who in the beginning introduces the reader (who he addresses as "Dear Reader" or some variant throughout) to his droogs and tells of their crimes. Alex is eventually caught and tried and convicted for. While in prison, Alex is recruited for a behavioral modification experiment called the Ludovico Technique which results in his experiencing overwhelming feelings of fear and nausea when confronted with images of violence. After his release, Alex encounters those he hurt prior to his incarceration, and they seek revenge upon him.

Fast Facts:

  1. Author: Anthony Burgess
  2. Publication Date: 1962
  3. Adapted into a 1971 film directed by Stanley Kubrick and starring Malcolm McDowell
  4. Original novel had 21 chapters; US version omitted Chapter 21

The Mahalo Top 7

  1. Official Site: The International Anthony Burgess Foundation
  2. Wikipedia: A Clockwork Orange
  3. Wikiquote: A Clockwork Orange Quotes
  4. Amazon.com: A Clockwork Orange Merchandise
  5. City Journal: A Prophetic and Violent Masterpiece (2006)
  6. SparkNotes: A Clockwork Orange Study Guide
  7. Video: Fight Scene from A Clockwork Orange Film (Time: 01:25)


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