He defends middle-class values whilst critiquing the failures of his own class, he advocates socialism whilst criticizing the socialist movement in England. In the second half of the book, Orwell examines his own political and social affiliations with an impressive ability to provoke and to question. And he also vividly describes the courage and dignity of the people he meets. Orwell describes dismal housing (including the lodging house where he stays), harsh working conditions and the devastating effects of unemployment. The Road to Wigan Pier is an insightful and powerful account of lives lived in poverty and deprivation in a time of low wages and meagre government support. Road to Wigan Pier by Orwell, George Publication date 1958 Topics Working class-Great Britain, Unemployed-Great Britain, Socialism. You do not notice the effect of this till you have gone a few hundred yards. This edition is introduced by journalist and author Amelia Gentleman. road, and not many places even there, where a man can stand upright. These beautiful books make perfect gifts or a treat for any book lover. Part of the Macmillan Collector’s Library a series of stunning, clothbound, pocket-sized classics with gold foiled edges and ribbon markers. The Road to Wigan Pier is a book in two parts: the first half is Orwell’s description of working-class life in industrial communities of the north of England, the second examines his own political views. The Road to Wigan Pier is a book in two parts: the first half is Orwell’s description of working-class life in industrial communities of the north of England, the second examines his own political views.

The Road to Wigan Pier by George Orwell