Chapter 3 Summary and Analysis

Coal miners emerge from the coal pit covered in coal dust. The dust invades every crease and wrinkle, coats the interior of the mouth and throat, and settles in the lungs. Emerging miners gargle to clear their mouths and throats. Deprived of adequate and good air, the emerging miners' faces—under the black pall of coal dust—are an unearthly and unhealthy white. Within a few moments of breathing good air, they again turn pink. Orwell states that at least two full baths are required to become 'clean' after being in a coal pit. Some larger collieries feature pithead baths and lockers, so that miners ending their shift can store their coal-dust-impregnated work clothes on site, take a full-body bath, and return home dressed in clean clothes. Most miners strongly prefer this arrangement, but it is not common. If...