Chapter 4: Reading comprehension questions
Who is singing the song Winston hears through the window of the rented room above Mr Charrington’s shop?
There is a brawny, strong woman singing while she washes baby’s diapers. She is singing one of the many songs produced by one section of the Music Department, whose only purpose is to entertain the proles.
What does the Music Department use to produce songs for the proles?
The Music Department uses an instrument called versificator, which needs no human intervention whatsoever. Winston believes the songs are horrible, yet the woman is singing so beautifully that she makes it sound almost pleasant.
Describe Winston’s feelings towards Julia and his reflection on their relationship.
Winston feels more attracted to Julia than before. He is actually so attached to her that she has become “a physical necessity”. He wishes to see her desperately, so he feels bitter and jealous when she is busy.
At the same time, he cares for her very much. He feels a deep tenderness towards her that makes him wish they were married. He longs for a time when they can walk together safely in the street, and hold hands in front of everybody.
Where is Winston certain he and Julia will end up before their executions?
He is certain they will end up in the cellars of the Ministry of Love before their executions.
What does Julia bring to the rented room in her tool bag?
She brings some real sugar, some jam, real bread, milk, 1 kg of coffee, and a bag of tea. She has gotten these things from the Inner Party members, but she doesn’t tell Winston how she has found them exactly.
What country does Julia say Oceania has recently captured?
She says Oceania has recently caught India, so there’s a lot of tea hanging about Airstrip-One lately.
What does Julia say she will be instead of a Party comrade in the rented room?
She says she will be a woman, not a party comrade. She has put make up on her face, and intends to wear a silk stockings and a skirt.
Winston describes his fear of something in particular. What is it? What does it remind him of?
Winston is terribly afraid of rats. They remind him of a recurring nightmare he has had of being standing in front of a wall of darkness. He doesn’t know exactly what is hiding in the dark, but he is sure it has a connection with rats.
What church is mentioned in the line of the old rhyme that Julia sings?
Julia mentions Old Bailey, but she can’t remember how the rhyme continues.
How does Julia say she learned the rhyme?
She says she has learned it from her grandfather. He used to sing it to her when she was little, but he was vaporized when she was just eight years old.
What does Winston imagine the paperweight represents as he gazes at it?
He imagines the paperweight represents the room he is in, and the coral Julia’s and his lives. he had the feeling he was actually inside it.
Video: Summary and analysis
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In the section Literature Guides, you can find other analyses of 1984.
