Similarities between Tolkien and Orwell

Superficially, Tolkien and Orwell pose in opposition: Tolkien the devout Catholic buried in English origins, Orwell the committed Socialist unraveling English outcomes. But much was shared, writes Darcy Moore, in abstract and detail alike.

hatred of authoritarianism
deep concern over the corruption of language and politics by lies, propaganda and poor writing
propensity to value clarity of language and honesty of intentions
vehement rejection of totalitarianism of any hue, left or right
genuine belief in equality and democracy
love of private life and all its pleasures and joys
distaste for supervision and intrusion

Lidless eyes, all the way down. — Read the rest