1984

What idea was given in the following passage in the novel, 1984?

“He felt deeply drawn to him, and not solely because he was intrigued by the contrast between O'Brien's urbane manner and his prize-fighter's physique. Much more it was because of a secretly held belief -- or perhaps not even a belief, merely a hope -- that O'Brien's political orthodoxy was not perfect. Something in his face suggested it irresistibly. And again, perhaps it was not even unorthodoxy that was written in his face, but simply intelligence. But at any rate he had the appearance of being a person that you could talk to if somehow you could cheat the telescreen and get him alone”​ (Orwell 11

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In context, Winston is looking at O'Brien's character and wondering if his beliefs and political leanings are similar to his own. Could O'Brien be a friend and confidant? Would Winston ever be in circumstances where he could actually find out.

Source(s)

1984