A Clockwork Orange by Anthony Burgess

This extended excerpt from "A Clockwork Orange" introduces the reader to the protagonist, Alex, and his "droogs" (friends), as they engage in acts of "ultra-violence" (extreme violence) and petty crime in a dystopian future. The narrative is heavily influenced by the unique "Nadsat" slang, a fusion of English, Russian, and other languages, which is helpfully explained in a comprehensive glossary. As the story progresses, Alex undergoes a controversial behavioral modification therapy known as the Ludovico Technique while imprisoned, which aims to eradicate his violent tendencies by inducing extreme nausea and fear whenever he encounters violence. The text then follows Alex's release and the consequences of his "cure," including his inability to defend himself and his exploitation by former victims and political factions.