Anthem is Ayn Rand’s classic tale of a dark future age of the great "We"—a world that deprives individuals of name, independence, and values. Written a full decade before George Orwell's "1984," this dystopian novel depicts a man who seeks escape from a society in which individuality has been utterly destroyed. Rand expertly shows how collectivism (including social programs in the United States) destroys freedom and individuality. Her philosophy is simple: "planning" is a synonym for "collectivism," and "collectivism" is a metaphor for communism and tyranny. This important book should be read by all who are concerned about the role of government in modern life. This publication from Boomer Books is specially designed and typeset for comfortable reading.
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Review Summary: classic dystopian novel
Review: This is an interesting book, though I'm not sure we could call it a full novel, more of a novella at just over 100 pages. It's the near future and the individual has been swallowed by the collective. It's a utopian/dystopian novel in the family of Orwell's 1984 and Huxley's Brave New World. It's a decent enough story, though you can tell it is an early work with the simplistic style of writing (though Rand was new to the English language when she wrote it). The only real problem with the book is that it gets a little 'philosophical' and preachy, at times to the detriment of the story itself. Still, I like the genre and it is a positive addition to it.
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Review Summary: Loved it
Review: I only wish it lasted longer, I read this in about 30 minutes. I had first heard of this because I am recent new fan of RUSH, and their epic masterpiece 2112 is loosely based on this book.
I loved it, I can see it being a hard read for younger people but I still recommend it to anybody.
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Review Summary: It blew me away!
Review: Anthem serves as a beacon encouraging readers to follow their heart, instead of trying to "fit in" so that people will like you.
In true Rand fashion, the main character struggles on as he learns that life does have meaning, when your willing open your mind and trust what you know.
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Review Summary: Come on, it's Ayn Rand
Review: The lack of individuality in the depicted society makes for a dull story told with a limited vocabulary, and Ayn Rand's ridiculous, individualistic, self-indulgent philosophy makes the ending of the book not even worth the short 66 page read.
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Review Summary: Easy read, great for travel or when you've got just a little time.
Review: This is a good travel book for anyone looking to get hooked right away. It is a simple read and easy to follow, so it's great for reading through in one sitting or in spurts. The book takes place sometime in the distant future. Somehow, mankind has become completely and utterly socialized. They no longer think or act for themselves. The word "I" has become the unspeakable word, the unpardonable sin. Only "we" exists now, and "we", the society as a whole, is all that matters.
This story is told through the eyes of a man called Equality 7-2521 because people no longer have names. Ayn Rand gives us a glimpse of the dangers and evils of social totalitarianism and loss of self, and also shows the beauty of freedom. It really makes you think...