1984 1

The opening paragraphs of 1984 define the setting. Orwell's choice of "cold" and "vile" as well as phrases such as "swirl of gritty dust" to describe the April afternoon establish the atmosphere for the "coldness" of the plot to follow. The appeal to the senses is especially effective. Additionally, the clock is striking "13." This seemingly minor detail suggests an abnormality in the setting, which foreshadows the events that will occur there.