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As Clover looked down the hillside her eyes filled with…

“As Clover looked down the hillside her eyes filled with tears. If she could have spoken her thoughts, it would have been to say that this was not what they had aimed at when they had set themselves years ago to work for the overthrow of the human race. These scenes of terror and slaughter were not…” quote by George Orwell
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““As Clover looked down the hillside her eyes filled with tears. If she could have spoken her thoughts, it would have been to say that this was not what they had aimed at when they had set themselves years ago to work for the overthrow of the human race. These scenes of terror and slaughter were not what they had looked forward to on that night when old Major first stirred them to rebellion. If she herself had had any picture of the future, it had been of a society of animals set free from hunger and the whip, all equal, each working according to his capacity, the strong protecting the weak, as she had protected the lost brood of ducklings with her foreleg on the night of Major's speech. Instead--she did not know why--they had come to a time when no one dared speak his mind, when fierce, growling dogs roamed everywhere, and when you had to watch your comrades torn to pieces after confessing to shocking crimes. There was no thought of rebellion or disobedience in her mind. She knew that, even as things were, they were far better off than they had been in the days of Jones, and that before all else it was needful to prevent the return of the human beings. Whatever happened she would remain faithful, work hard, carry out the orders that were given to her, and accept the leadership of Napoleon. But still, it was not for this that she and all the other animals had hoped and toiled.””

George Orwell

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Clover reflects on the betrayal of the original revolutionary ideals, realizing the regime has become oppressive and far from the promised equality.

In simple terms: She sees the revolution has failed to deliver freedom and equality.

Key Takeaway

Recognize when ideals are compromised and act to restore them.

Themes

betrayal revolution idealism oppression disillusionment

Mood

sad reflective critical

Type

literary political philosophical

When to use this quote

  • political activism
  • grassroots organizing
  • ethical leadership
  • community vigilance

Key Concepts

political corruption human nature power dynamics

Questions to Reflect On

  • Are the original goals still attainable?
  • How can one reconcile loyalty with moral truth?
A Different Perspective

The quote assumes all animals accept Napoleon’s rule without resistance, which may not hold true.

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