'The mass of the rich and the poor are differentiated by their incomes and nothing else, and the average millionaire is only the average dishwasher dressed in a new suit.'

In 1928 the young George Orwell arrived in Paris, a city known as a thriving art scene and home to some of literature's most esteemed figures. It was not long before the money ran out, and Orwell, now destitute, was forced to take on the menial work of a dishwasher to survive.

Drawing on Orwell's own experiences, Down and Out in Paris and London lays bare the realities of life amongst the poorest members of society and reveals a hidden world of drudgery, squalor, and anxiety. This insightful memoir brings home the evils of poverty and reminds us that before we judge those less fortunate than ourselves, we first should live as they do.

ABOUT THE SERIES: Arcturus Essential Orwell presents George Orwell's most acclaimed fiction and non-fiction titles with striking contemporary cover-designs. These unique paperback editions are wonderful collectibles which celebrate one of the most important voices of the 20th century.