This is one of the most gripping dystopias of the 20th century, in which the terror of teenage gangs collides with the overwhelming power of the state… The story is told by Alex, a teenager and leader of a youth gang, who takes immense pleasure in beating and raping, mutilating and killing. One day he is caught at the scene of a crime and sentenced to fourteen years in prison. Soon Alex agrees to take part in a medical experiment after which he is supposed to be rid of all his lustful and sinful desires…
Terrifying and provocative in content, “A Clockwork Orange” is a meditation on the nature of human aggression, free will, and the adequacy of punishment.