"Keep the Aspiridistra Flying" first published in 1936, is one of George Orwell's great social criticism novels. Set in 1930s London, its main theme is the romantic ambition of Gordon Comstock to challenge the worship of the god of money and status, and the bleak life that results from it.

Although pessimistic, "Keep the Aspiridistra Flying" is not a bitter book but constantly airy and often funny, and this is due to Orwell's constant attention to revealing details; his dry and serene humor; his fascination with the madness and excellence of his characters; and his brave refusal to accept the comfort of any easy answer.