Orwell was different. Yes, he was a committed socialist, but he was a thinker and modified his views throughout his lifetime. He also hated communism with a passion. And he was British patriot who whole-heartedly supported his country in WWII.
I’ve always thought Orwell’s idealism changed a lot after his experience in the Spanish civil war...his excellent book, “Homage to Catalonia” pretty much expresses his view of war and honed his hatred for communism. I read it quite awhile ago, but as I recall he spent much of the book describing the political bent of the many, many, ideologies battling in that absurd war.
I am glad that you have the real George Orwell well and truly pegged. For at the time Orwell was indeed "Down and out in London and Paris" (Book title), the only hope seemed the British Labour Party. This in the hard scrabble years - the 1930's. You are probably well aware of Orwell's differences with the "new" Socialists.
I take the liberty for others of showing just where Orwell began to doubt. When he hiked up North, did show concern about the established and comfortable Trades Union brass. Orwell noted that having got a salary from the workers, they then acted exactly like the "managerial class". Houses adorned like that class. The airs and graces of the British Lower Middle Class.,were then adopted by these people.
Orwell asked a prominent Labour leader, who had sold the idea that Britains exclusive and elite "Public Schools" should no longer be supported by the poorer tax payers, a question. "What if they still exist?" The now affluent Labour politician said in a prissy voice.
"I will jolly well send my sons to them".
Orwell was disgusted. With good reason eventually. The so-called Labour Party then became inebriated with the trappings of those they despised and campaigned against. Excuse this rant, but the lesson is that Socialists both Canadian and American in political parties, talk up a good storm for the average Joe. They then emulate the "fat cats" whom they have campaigned against. (chuckle).