3. Some things to consider
• Nadsat (a cross between Cockney and Russian) ‘keeps us removed from
the intensely brutal violence that Alex perpetrates. Before we can
evaluate Alex’s character, we must first come to identify with him on his
terms: to “speak his language,” literally. In this way, Alex implicates us in
the remorseless violence he commits throughout most of Part One, and
we in turn develop sympathy for him as our narrator.’
• The milk symbolioses immaturity and infantile helplessness. The fact the
milk is laced with drugs is ironic, suggesting that these youths are less
wholesome and innocent than adults.
• Light/day represents danger for Alex – there are more police on patrol
during the day, the doctors wear white, the brainwashing happens during
the day. An opposite effect of mise-en-scene than conventional cinema.
Is this because it’s based on a book?