In Chapter 7 of Animal Farm, the narrative unfolds against the backdrop of a harsh winter that brings severe hardships for the animals. The cold weather leads to food shortages, and the animals are forced to endure great suffering. To mask the dire conditions on the farm, the pigs, particularly Squealer, manipulate information and employ propaganda to present a false image of prosperity and success to the outside world. They maintain that the farm is thriving, using the threat of Mr. Jones's return to instill fear and ensure compliance among the other animals.

Napoleon, the leader, resorts to deceitful tactics to control the narrative. He decides to engage in trade with nearby human farms, which contradicts the original principles of Animalism that advocated against any dealings with humans. The pigs justify this betrayal by claiming that such actions are necessary for the survival of the farm. The rations for the other animals continue to dwindle as they are led to believe that they are better off than they were under human control. Squealer's persuasive rhetoric convinces them that they are, in fact, living in a better environment despite the evident scarcity.

As the chapter progresses, the pigs further exploit the animals' loyalty and hard work. The hens, in particular, rebel against Napoleon's decision to sell their eggs for profit, leading to a brutal crackdown on dissent. The pigs, displaying increasing authoritarianism, punish those who resist, demonstrating their willingness to use violence against their fellow animals to maintain control.

The notion of the Seven Commandments, which were designed to uphold equality and justice among the animals, is systematically undermined. In a particularly poignant moment, the commandment stating that "No animal shall kill any other animal" is altered to include the caveat "without cause". This change is emblematic of the broader betrayal of the revolution's ideals, as the pigs continue to shift the rules to justify their actions.

As the chapter concludes, the animals are left disillusioned and confused, unable to reconcile the stark reality of their suffering with the propagandistic messages they receive from the pigs. The sense of betrayal grows as the pigs indulge in luxuries and privileges, drinking alcohol and engaging in human-like behavior, further alienating themselves from the other animals. The chapter serves as a critical reflection on how the original revolutionary ideals are corrupted through manipulation, fear, and the consolidation of power, marking a significant decline in the principles of equality and camaraderie that once inspired the rebellion.