Keep The Aspidistra Flying

Though a work of fiction, this piece is perhaps the best window into the actual life that Orwell lived through.  It captures the many subtle ways that money can pervade and poison "middle-class" life; so much so that the actual poverty of middle class life is revealed.  Favorite excerpt:  "The money god is so cunning.  If he only baited his traps with yachts and race-horses, tarts and champagne, how easy it would be to dodge him.  It is when he gets at you through your sense of decency that he finds you helpless."