In "1984," how does the diary function as a literary device?

The diary
serves several functions.  It's a way forto allow us to see "inside" 's mind; it gives
us a way to feel some of the things that Winston is feeling.  It also provides several layers of
dramatic .  It's where Winston notes that as long as we can say that 2 + 2 = 4, then there is
hope; we are set up for Winston's later "realization" that 2 + 2 can be anything the
Inner Party says it is.  Winston's comments about the Proles are similar.

 Perhaps more importantly, Winston thinks that he is engaged in a private
act, a successful personal revolution against the Party.  Sadly, it was never a private
rebellion as indicated by 's remarks to the fact that the Party has always known the contents of
the diary through references to its content when they meet in rm. 101.