Brave New World ~ Essay

Prompt

Inward questioning without actions does nothing to create change. Bernard Marx from the novel Brave New World depicts that inward attacks accomplish nothing in real time, not even expression of those thought is enough, actions must be made. The entire novel revolves around the idea that although some people are against the World State nothing changes unless the "outward existence" does not conform. Both the inward and outward have to be in line, or else change in a human-less, robotic world cannot occur. Aldous Huxley clearly identifies the two choices that are available in this heartless world, the first being lunacy from contradicting yet attempting to live in this world, the second being simply conforming, living a normal life which will eventually lead to death. Huxley's novel is a revolutionary piece that speaks volumes through various generations, as we reach our final stages before this type of environment and world.

Huxley's greatest message, expressed through the character of Bernard, is the need to be an individual, to essentially be one's own person and not simply a copy, a replica, a clone, etc. Bernard's outward conformity comes from the need to be similar to everyone else, the need to be well-liked by his peers, and to "fit in." Conformity similar to Bernard's is what we see in today's society, a need to follow trends or what is popular. People are constantly attempting to fight the outside with the 'contradictory' or different ideas that inhabit the inside, or the personality that contradicts the entire population. Bernard is a prime example of internal questioning with external conformity, and the issues that may arise. Throughout the entirety of the book we see Bernard, whether conforming or revolting through expression, attempt to impress someone. He never lives for himself. This is a main concept that Huxley instills in his readers, in a world controlled by the State, a person never lives for themselves.

The character of Bernard inhibits a great portion of tension within himself, as well as with other characters. We constantly see him struggle whether he should, or if he shouldn't express himself. In the world that Huxley presents most of his characters are unconscious to the state of the world, to the state of their lives. Bernard often finds himself having trouble connecting with others, or of speaking his true opinions to someone, and that creates a bigger internal struggle. He hinders his ability to create himself, to become an individual, with his fear of being judged and in a sense, excommunicated. His struggle to speak up contributes to the meaning of the work because most people often face this similar struggle.

Questioning internally is the same as not having questioned anything at all. It has no value. If the idea or question is not acted upon then it simply was never a threat. Huxley is calling the world to attention, he is saying that one cannot just sit around and think and then do nothing. Because a thought without an action is not only wasted time, but a wasted opportunity.



*I had a lot of trouble with this topic/prompt. I honestly had problems answering the question and staying on topic. I tried my best but as I reread it it sounds as though I said few things in many words, repeatedly.*