Reflections on 'A Clockwork Orange'

Extract

[...] On reflection, it feels like Burgess quickly grasps for a happy ending in the last few chapters. The concept of the treatment being reversed is perhaps the most fictional part of the book. However, when first reading it, we experience a little relief that Alex has been saved. It gets a little more unrealistic when we discover that the same government that gave him the treatment then saved it. The highlight of the chapter is when Alex listens to Beethoven's 9th Symphony and relishes it. [...]

[...] This is quite a dark theme and Burgess noticeably treats it at less of a face on value and passes over it briefly. Alex's return to the cottage ‘HOME' in which he committed rape in Part 1 again continues the mirroring motif which Burgess has created. This is an interesting technique that he has used and emphasizes the difference between the beginning and end of the story. Alex's suicide attempt is quite a brief section and is not dwelt upon for long. [...]

[...] Burgess has effectively raised these issues in our minds and I felt almost forced to think about the ethical nature of such medical treatment and similar situations in today's world. Burgess also alerts us to the State's role in the treatment. This fairly accurately reflects the hypocritical qualities that some governmental bodies possess. In reflection, Burgess has considerable talent for forcing the reader to contemplate various issues that he raises. Journal Entry 7 Alex's ongoing relationship with Beethoven's music is attacked by Burgess from a completely different angle. [...]

[...] This is an example of how leaders in a competitive group maintain their authoritative position. It also briefly introduces the concept of rebellion within the group. It's getting close to the middle of the book and there hasn't been any established plot or storyline. It's difficult to guess the direction that Burgess intends to take with the story. There are several possibilities. He could continue along the lines of gang warfare or inter-gang relations. It is certain that the situation in the gang at present is unstable and this is an issue that will hopefully be explored further. [...]

[...] Their discussion on the subject of Alex taking the treatment highlights the fact that Alex is quite desperate to get out of prison. Although, it's very obvious to the reader that he thinks he is taking the easy way out despite the chaplain's strong warnings on the subject. As the reader we can sense that this ‘treatment' is perhaps quite harmful or invasive to Alex. It sounds like he's going to be brainwashed. It is claimed that he will be completely normal in the space of 2 weeks. [...]