Anthem by Ayn Rand

“Anthem” is a dystopian novella written by Russian-American author Ayn Rand. It was first published in 1938 and presents a fictional future society in which individuality and personal freedom have been eradicated.

The story is set in a collectivist society that has suppressed the concept of “self” and emphasized the importance of the collective. The protagonist, Equality 7-2521, is a young man who discovers a hidden tunnel where he conducts forbidden scientific experiments. Through his experiments, Equality rediscovers electricity and other technological advancements that have been lost to society.

Driven by his desire to share his discoveries with others, Equality confronts the oppressive government and the Council of Scholars, who seek to maintain control over all aspects of life. Along the way, he falls in love with a fellow dissenter named Liberty 5-3000, and together they strive to escape the constraints of their society and find true individual freedom.

“Anthem” explores themes such as individualism, collectivism, the power of knowledge, and the importance of personal identity. It is known for its concise and straightforward writing style, as well as its philosophical underpinnings. Rand’s objectivist philosophy, which emphasizes the pursuit of rational self-interest and the rejection of collectivism, is evident throughout the novella.

While “Anthem” is shorter than Rand’s more well-known novels like “Atlas Shrugged” and “The Fountainhead,” it still reflects her distinctive ideas and themes. The novella serves as an introduction to Rand’s philosophy and provides readers with a glimpse into her views on individualism, freedom, and the potential dangers of an oppressive society.

“Anthem” continues to be studied and discussed for its philosophical insights and its exploration of the individual’s struggle against conformity and authoritarianism.