Out of the Ordinary

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In an era marked by polarization, the author argues that both political extremes have lost faith in the capabilities of ordinary people. Drawing parallels to historical crises from the 1920s to the 1950s, he highlights how a diverse group of British creators—like George Orwell and Dylan Thomas—championed a politics rooted in everyday experiences. Their works celebrated the potential of individuals to navigate complex societal challenges, ultimately shaping a vision for national renewal exemplified by the 1951 Festival of Britain. Stears emphasizes the relevance of these ideas for contemporary society.