<p>Harvard's supplement essay is non-mandatory. I have written about 2 books that have affected me significantly, to tell the admission officers more about myself. I read somewhere that the admission officers would prefer not having to read an extra essay, so is this really worth attaching? or should I scrap it? </p>
<p>I know it isn't safe to post essays over here but there's only 2 days left and I have no other option. Any comments are appreciated!</p>
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<p>A totalitarian government and a delusional public with an illusion of freedom- George Orwells combination of these elements in his novel Nineteen Eighty-Four tells a compelling story which serves as a reminder that freedom is indeed precious. The government controls history and news, and the public is gullible enough to believe everything the government feeds them with. It went as far as inventing a new language, the newspeak, eradicating any words related to rebellion so that no person can ever invoke rebellion. As I read through the lines of this book, I realized how powerful words are, and how strong the freedom of expression is. </p>
<p>The book inspires me to not trust blindly, to not presume invincibility, and to never squander the free will to do what I love to do. My parents had already decided my future. They told me that I was going to be a Chemical Engineer, and I didnt object although I wanted to study Biological Sciences. Disobeying ones parents will is considered a felony in my culture. But Nineteen Eighty-Four made realize that I shouldnt settle for anything I dont want to. I gathered the courage and explained to my parents that I want to study Biological Sciences, and after a long argument that stretched over months, they finally agreed. </p>
<p>Eckart Tolles A New Earth also played a big part in shaping my perception. I grew up in a society where it is common for young kids to be harshly scolded and beaten for the smallest of mistakes, such as dropping food on the floor. Consequently, kids grow up with a similar attitude and a personality filled with negative emotions. And a horrendous idea is prevalent in my society that success can only be attained by gaining the prestige that comes with being either an engineer or a doctor, and being of importance in the eyes of others. </p>
<p>After reading A New Earth, I realized how delusional I had been, agreeing to such a dire conception. The only factor that matters is being important in my own eyes and pursuing a life that would satisfy me and not others. The book also underscores the importance of letting go of attachments and keeping calm at all times. Ever since I read this book, my behavior towards my parents has been more understanding and my attitude towards my younger siblings has changed from imperious to friendly. The book has convinced me that every person is an equal and nobody can be judged or labeled. I have never been more willing to listen to others opinions and viewpoints.</p>
<h2>Although I have read many books, and all of them played a part in shaping my personality, no other books have affected me as significantly as A New Earth and Nineteen Eighty-Four.</h2>