Anthem: The Definitive Text

Ayn Rand's point is well-made but dated. Totalitarianism as it blossoms today is not brutal. Its victims are not beaten with rods, forced into labor, housed in dormitories, with electricity outlawed. They are mollycoddled into a false security with constant entertainment and sentimentality sustained by dazzling technology. Most succumb willingly to the platitudes of state control and believe they are free because they have 500 cable channels and instant video games. However, this book (which can be read in one sitting) is a sort of "short hand" to the basics of Objectivism and individuality, and it hits home in that important aspect.As a literary work this is almost sophomoric. After the tremendous depth, insight into human nature, and subtle conflicts of Atlas and Fountainhead, this novel will not elate you with its beautiful prose. That may have been deliberate on the writer's part to convey the urgency of the questions here posed to every thinking human being. There are some poignant scenes between the 2 lovers.Anyone seeking to understand Ayn Rand, or is mildly curious about her ideas, should read this book. While not uplifting in a literary sense, it is thought-provoking and an engaging story. "Anthem" poses important questions that anyone who loves liberty, or believes they know what liberty is, needs to confront.

Overall:The story is quite interesting especially since it is post apoclyptic dystopian story. Ayn Rand's story is a clear warning about how societies evolve when the many subjugate / control the individual. The society is non-productive, limiting in man's potential and always ready to destroy the individual at the first signs of disobedience. The more power that is centralized the worse the results for the society as a whole.Ayn Rand's views are made very clear. Whether you agree or not with her, the story is definitely thought provoking. She also uses techniques that George Orwell did by readjusting the meanings of words and limiting the use of certain parts of the English language -- the effect is well done and at times disturbing.Side note: Rush's 2112 was written after reading this story. You can see clear parallels and elements Rush lifted from the story.Characters:The characters are fairly one-dimensional but given it is a short story, it is not surprising. Ayn also had to make them that way to help define the Milieu of the story. The effect of discovery of the individual in person and language has a strong effect on the reader.World setting / Milieu:It is a post apocalyptic view of the world after a massive world war. Modern society has been effectively wiped off the global. People effectively live in the pre-industrial age. Technology is tightly controlled (the government knows that technological advances will make it easier for the people to revolt).Writing style:It is non-flowery and direct. The tone is a bit harsh but it fits with the setting to make it effective and helps to set the tone. The language does evolve as the story goes helping to show discoveries / changes in the characters world view. It shows how what you think / visualize effects your world view.

Book came early.To me this story is about standing up for your beliefs, against all odds, even fear of death, and brain washing.Yet, still finding a way to self discovery, and the path you can live that will make you happy.If i ever loose sight of myself, or the way to execute my ambitions I will certainly be rereading this book.I found it nothing short of amazing.

I had heard of this author from her work, Atlas Shrugged. But she had never interested me. It wasn't until I played the game, Bioshock, that I had been curious to its inspiration which is tied directly (in inspirations sake) to Ayn Rand.I purchased this novel hoping to dive into a cousin world to this game series and it did not disappoint.I read it in one sitting. The novel has moments in the beginning where you have to bend your mind to understand but once that's accomplished it is an enjoyable and informative read that will hook you till the end.I thoroughly enjoyed this novel. If you are a fan of stories that promote thought, look no further. If you are looking for an introduction to Ms Rands writing you have found it.Enjoy!

An excellent supplement to Atlas Shrugged . The reader can decide if he/she wants a number and "career" or a name and liberty.

Ms. Rand's "Anthem" was a small part of my flirtation with libertarianism in my callow youth."Anthem" does have its good points, i.e., it's her shortest novel and a fast read. Inreading it now, I see a thinly veiled, but understandable response to Soviet tyranny, butunfortunately, lacking the inventiveness and overall impact of Orwell's "Animal Farm".I should hasten to add that I outgrew Ayn Rand before the age of 30 and it surprises meshe still has so much influence in the halls of power.