Here's a breakdown of why he says this:
* Julia's Rebellion: Julia is primarily concerned with personal freedom and rebellion against the Party's control over individual lives. She rebels by engaging in forbidden acts like sex, wearing forbidden clothing, and indulging in pleasure. She accepts the Party's ideology and political reality, focusing her energy on finding ways to enjoy her own life despite the restrictions.
* Winston's Rebellion: Winston rebels against the Party on a deeper level. He questions the Party's history, its control over the past, and the nature of truth. He is actively involved in seeking out truth and information, believing in the possibility of a free future. He wants to overthrow the Party's power and establish a new order based on individual freedom and truth.
This difference in their motivations and goals is what leads Winston to make this comment. He sees Julia as a rebel in a personal and physical sense, but not a true ideological rebel like himself.
Here's why it matters:
* Their Relationship: This difference in their approach creates tension and a complex dynamic in their relationship. They are drawn to each other because they share a desire for freedom, but their different motivations lead to disagreements and ultimately contribute to their downfall.
* The Nature of Rebellion: The quote raises questions about the nature of rebellion. Is it enough to simply resist the Party in a personal way, or does it require a deeper intellectual and political commitment?
* Orwell's Critique of Totalitarianism: Orwell uses this contrast to illustrate how totalitarian regimes can manipulate and control even those who appear to be resisting.
Overall, Winston's statement highlights the complex nature of rebellion against a totalitarian regime and the different forms it can take.