Anthem by Ayn Rand1

Anthem by Ayn Rand The novel Anthem by Ayn Rand tells the story of Equality 7-2521, an individual living in a communal society devoid of human individuality. In a future where there is no love, no science, and everyone is equal and of one entity, one man defies the group to be his own person. “I owe nothing to my brothers, nor do I gather debts from them. I ask none to live for me, …

…the creativity and innovation of individuals, nothing will ever improve. This is exemplified by Equality’s rediscovery of electricity and the rather militant reaction incurred therein by the ruling class. Through this, Rand is conveying the message that, in a group-oriented society, there is no motivation to innovate, to create, to improve—only to BE and to do what is expected. [Anaphora] After all, one would not want to be better than one’s brother.