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Sci-Fi Juggernauts: A Clockwork Orange

A horrowshow veshch about some chepooka.
by Sinjin Jones

There are dozens of classic novels that fall under the category of “must-read” science fiction. Throughout this year, I will examine why a handful of these particular works are absolutely essential additions to everyone's reading list, even those who do not consider themselves science fiction fans.

"Then I looked at its top sheet, and there was the name - A CLOCKWORK ORANGE - and I said: 'That's a fair gloopy title. Who ever heard of a clockwork orange?'"
-Jack, A Clockwork Orange

     Using a slang he created, Anthony Burgess fashioned a masterpiece of science fiction that explores the human condition in a completely unique way: he called it A Clockwork Orange.
     The plot of A Clockwork Orange is one that, at first glance, makes the casual reader grimace: a group of friends led by the main character, Alex, run amok through a futuristic British city wreaking havoc. However, the short description is deceiving. At its core, A Clockwork Orange explores the very foundation of human beings, their need for commitment, free will, and the evil that is inherent in government. The novel follows the story of Alex, a resident and troublemaker of this semi-futuristic society, and his group of friends as they gallivant around, causing immense amounts of damage. Alex is a mere 15 years old but is the vicious leader of a gang of criminals which, throughout the novel, perform various unsavory deeds (including, but not limited to: theft, bribery, and especially violence of every kind). Read more

Fantasy Fliers: Lord of the Rings

The popularity and importance of this classic novel is reviewed.

by Sinjin Jones

Predating science fiction writing by centuries, the fable genre is literature that has long been adored by millions. It has since evolved into modern fantasy fiction, a niche that appeals especially to teens. The popularity has become somewhat of a phenomenon among academicians, and much of today’s published literature falls within this genre. This series will examine why and, for those interested in fantasy, recommend further reading.

     The J.R.R. Tolkien classic Lord of the Rings has gained a massive amount of popularity, spawning a corresponding series of movies, action figures, and a fan base that rivals any other. The unequivocal response to this novel shows that there is something about it that people like. So, what is it? Read more

The Weekly Reporter's Review: Articles of War

"Arvin is…capable of sentences that stop you cold"
by Manny Perez
Each week a different member of the Living and Arts staff will present a new review of anything ranging from the latest chart topping blockbusters to obscure potato chip flavors; always insightful and always through an honest perspective, the WRR gives a critical picture into today’s content rich world.

Articles of War
    One Book/One Denver, the citywide project to bring together readers around a hand-selected book by the mayor, is a great idea. Imagine, once the program begins to ascend in popularity, turning towards friendly looking people on the bus or while waiting for the elevator and asking “So what did you think of Articles of War”? Too bad these people will reply with only an exasperated sigh and return to leafing through their thesaurus for more interesting words. Or is that just me? Read more

Sci-Fi Juggernauts: Brave New World

Aldous Huxley's masterpiece gets the Juggernaut once-over.
by Sinjin Jones

There are dozens of classic novels that fall under the category of “must-read” science fiction. Throughout this year, I will examine why a handful of these particular works are absolutely essential additions to everyone's reading list, even those who do not consider themselves science fiction fans.

"That is the secret of happiness and virtue — liking what you’ve got to do. All conditioning aims at that: making people like their inescapable social destiny."
~The Director, Brave New World

     With its imaginative use of metaphors and common sci-fi themes, Brave New World stands apart from most modern science fiction because of its keen ability to remain almost comical while exploring the serious issues of humanity.
     The novel follows the story of Bernard Marx, an inhabitant of a future society in which babies are created in Hatcheries and the world’s problems are solved by a miracle drug known as Soma. Bernard is often looked down upon because he isn't as promiscuous as society would like him to be - it is frowned upon to be with one woman for any extended length of time. Read more

Sci-Fi Juggernauts: Dune

Frank Herbert's classic mirrors current events.

by Sinjin Jones

There are dozens of classic novels that fall under the category of “must-read” science fiction. Throughout this year, I will examine why a handful of these particular works are absolutely essential additions to everyone's reading list, even those who do not consider themselves science fiction fans.

"Religion and law among our masses must be one and the same…"
-Duke Leto, Dune

    Dune, by Frank Herbert, is a novel that strikes chords with science fiction fans all over the world because of its intricate plot, its mirroring of modern society, and the entertainment derived from reading it. Spawning a successful movie, miniseries, and a collection of sequels, this novel will live on in the vaults of literature for years to come. Read more

Sci-Fi Juggernauts: 1984

A look at George Orwell's classic work.

by Sinjin Jones

There are dozens of classic novels that fall under the category of “must-read” science fiction. Throughout this year, I will examine why a handful of these particular works are absolutely essential additions to everyone's reading list, even those who do not consider themselves science fiction fans.

     Science fiction has long been a voice for those who wish to comment on society. For readers who are interested in beginning or expanding their knowledge of this style of writing, the science fiction classic 1984 by George Orwell is essential.
    There are three main components to a great sci-fi novel: content, commentary on the human condition, and “on-purpose” writing. It is no coincidence that 1984 contains all of these features. Read more

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