"So much of left-wing thought is a kind of playing with fire by people who don't even know that fire is hot"

This quote by George Orwell is a criticism of left-wing thought. He is recommending that those who are engaging in left-wing thought are not knowledgeable about the effects of their actions. He is indicating that they are playing with fire without understanding the prospective danger of their actions. He is alerting that left-wing thought can be unsafe and that those engaging in it needs to understand the prospective effects. He is likewise suggesting that left-wing idea ought to be approached with caution and that those participating in it should know the possible dangers. In conclusion, this quote is a warning to those taking part in left-wing thought to be familiar with the prospective repercussions of their actions.