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GEORGE ORWELL AT THE BBC | Principles and propaganda
About this collection
For two years, between 1941 and 1943, George Orwell - real name Eric Blair - was BBC staff member 9889, hired as a Talks Producer for the Eastern Service to write what was essentially propaganda for broadcast to India.
From recruitment to resignation, this collection of documents reveals the high regard in which Orwell was held by his colleagues and superiors and his own uncompromising integrity and honesty. Internal memos explore working relationships with literary contributors, while letters written from the Hebridean island of Jura colour the background to the creation of 'Nineteen Eighty-Four'.
Features
George Orwell at the BBC Collection
Memo from the BBC's Director of Empire Services
George Orwell is recommended for employment.
Letter from Arthur Keith to D Pearson-Smith Esq
A glowing reference for George Orwell.
Memo from Orwell to the Eastern Service Director
Eric Blair discusses writing as George Orwell.
Letter from Orwell to TS Eliot
George Orwell invites TS Eliot to contribute a reading.
Memo from the Assistant Controller, Overseas Services
The Assistant Controller appreciates the propaganda advantage of Orwell's name.
Memo criticising Orwell's voice
Is George Orwell's voice suitable for broadcasting?
Letter to Orwell from ALC Bullock
An invitation to comment on social changes in wartime Britain.
Reply from Orwell to ALC Bullock
Orwell asserts his preference for the truth.
Memo on the resignation of Eric Blair
LF Rushbrook Williams ponders George Orwell's resignation.
Orwell's official leaving notice
The BBC regrets the loss of Orwell from its employment.
Letter from Orwell to Rayner Heppenstall
George Orwell writes about moving to the remote island of Jura.
Letter from Rayner Heppenstall to Orwell
Rayner Heppenstall asks what provisions to bring to Orwell on Jura.
Letter from Orwell to Rayner Heppenstall
George Orwell gives directions on how to get to Jura.
Letter from Rayner Heppenstall to Orwell
Rayner Heppenstall worries about what to bring and getting to Jura.
Letter from Rayner Heppenstall to Orwell
Rayner Heppenstall pulls out of visiting George Orwell on Jura.
Letter from Rayner Heppenstall to Orwell
Rayner Heppenstall worries that he has offended George Orwell.
Letter from Orwell to Rayner Heppenstall
George Orwell describes life on Jura.
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