Did you know?
Did you know that the relationship between John and Lenina in Aldous Huxley's Brave New World is a complex blend of love and infatuation? In this dystopian novel, Lenina is a citizen of the World State, conditioned to prioritize promiscuity and instant gratification. John, on the other hand, has grown up outside the confines of the World State and experiences emotions more akin to those in the pre-industrial society.
One example of John's love for Lenina can be seen when he proclaims passionately, "O brave new world, that has such people in it!", in reference to Lenina's beauty and uniqueness. This strong declaration indicates a deep affection and genuine admiration for her. Furthermore, John's infatuation is evident when he becomes jealous and possessive, constantly surveilling Lenina's interactions with other men and feeling a sense of entitlement towards her.
Conversely, Lenina's affection for John appears to be fueled more by infatuation. Her fascination with his "savage" upbringing and his nonconformist behavior reveal her attraction to the novelty and difference he represents. This infatuation is highlighted by her pursuit of physical intimacy with John, driven by her desire to explore his unconventional desires and experiences.
The complexity of their relationship lies in the clash between their contrasting upbringings and societal conditioning. While John's love for Lenina stems from a genuine connection and admiration, Lenina's attraction to John is grounded more in infatuation and curiosity. This dichotomy contributes to the profound critique of love and relationships in Brave New World, highlighting the conflict between authentic connections and hollow infatuations in a dystopian society.
