Atlas Shrugged. The first time I heard the title of the book I turned to my avidly encouraging friend and responded with a less than concealed guffaw. Not only did it induce thoughts of mythological happenings, trembling muscles and less than realistic events; it was 1079 pages, in size 10 font. In contemplating whether or not to purchase the book, the thought of spending countless hours with my nose shoved between two pages of discussion concerning a theory defined as
objectivism seemed slightly less than appealing. However, being an avid believer in the cliché idea that books should not be read by their covers, I caved.
The book, to be quite frank, was the most incredible literary experience I have yet to endure. Ayn Rand, while using strong voice and character development, was able to effectively embody a world teeming with selfishness, disgusting societal flaws and human ineptitudes; all the while suggesting corrections to the defective system. Her plot was also a ravishing display of literary skill; sex, intellect and capitalism playing the leads in a twisted story of destruction and re-growth.
Imagery was surprisingly dominant in Rand’s desire to distinguish the antagonists from the protagonists; as well as meaningful locations from those of less distinctive meaning. Consistently throughout the read I felt a yearning to be part of the unwinding story, I desired nothing more than to interact with the brilliant minded heroine; to tell her that her actions made the idea of objectivism comprehensible.
If
novels whose plots jump from their home upon the page are typically appreciated by your intellect, I highly suggest savoring each word of this tale. The psychological theory of objectivism not only provokes contemplation in consideration of all societal systems, it demands questioning of all existing norms. It demands action in a sense, to respect your own existence.