Anthem: The Relentless Pursuit of Individuality

In Ayn Rand’s novella, Anthem, mankind is a philanthropic machine. To achieve a common goal, the brotherhood disregards their own personal ends and nobly collaborates. For every decision comes from collective thought and every advancement, from joint action. However, one man in this machine malfunctions: Equality-72521. With an inquisitive nature, an innovative mind, and latent desire, Equality possesses the traits of a visionary. Every step Equality takes, is one away from the public-spirited system; another towards personal identity. Each step is an internal struggle, due to the machine’s brainwash and eloquent reprogram of Equality’s instinctive mind. But nature tells Equality that his DNA is nothing save himself. Nature tells Equality

Nevertheless, Equality is “not like that of our brothers” (19), with a grand stature, a fascinating face, and straight capable arms resting at his sides. His distinctive features, are however, not just arbitrary. Equality’s looks are unlike those surrounding him, in an effort to symbolize his inner being. While others are slow, Equality is quick. Where others fail, Equality excels. His brain is just as different as his body. Normally, this brilliance would be considered an advantageous trait, but according to the rationale of socialism, superiority is putrid. Thus the government reprimands Equality by assigning him a position worth the most ignorant minded: a street sweeper. Equality’s curiosity, however, only increases when he uncovers a hole leading to a secluded metro station from the Unmentionable Times. Inside, Equality forcefully states, “This place is ours. This place belongs to us, Equality 7-2521, and to no other men on earth” (8). Demonstrating, that like his contrasting body and brain, Equality has inclinations apart from those of other

However, upon his encounter with the metro, he now has sanctuary to do so. The concept of heightened comprehension, prompts Equality to return to the unmentionable place. Here, sinfully feed himself fruit from the forbidden tree of knowledge and learns about the great mysteries of mankind. Equality guiltily yet unregretfully begins to experiment with stolen “vials and powders and acids” (44). He writes psychological reflections and thoughts in a journal, unawarely soul searching. Through these reflections, Equality realizes that he, “wish[es] nothing save to be alone and to learn”. This demonstrates that when given the chance, Equality can flourish in free thought, away from the fictitious collective thought of his