Atlas Shrugged

Ayn Rand

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philosophical exposition

socialism and government control

dystopian society

individual achievement

collectivist policies

challenging read

lengthy diatribes and arguments

characters lack depth

'Atlas Shrugged' by Ayn Rand is a lengthy novel that delves into the philosophy of objectivism through a fictional story. The plot revolves around a world where individuals of exceptional ability go on strike, leaving society to crumble under the weight of socialism and government control. The writing style is described as heavy-handed, filled with lengthy diatribes and philosophical arguments that can be overwhelming for some readers.

Characters:

Characters lack depth and complexity, often serving as vessels for Rand's philosophical messages rather than being developed as fully realized individuals.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is characterized by extensive philosophical exposition, weak dialogue, and a penchant for melodrama, making it a challenging read.

Plot/Storyline:

The story presents a dystopian view of society's decline under collectivist policies, emphasizing the struggle of a few exceptional individuals against the burdens imposed by the government and society.

Setting:

The setting is a near-future America facing economic and social collapse, shaped by the conflicts between individual achievement and government regulation.

Pacing:

The pacing can be tedious, with long stretches of exposition that hinder the flow of the story.

The light was ebbing, and Eddie Willers could not distinguish the bum’s face. The bum had said it simply, without expression. But from the sunset far at the end of the street, yellow glints caught his...

Notes:

Atlas Shrugged was published in 1957 and encompasses themes of capitalism and individualism.

Rand's philosophy, Objectivism, positions selfishness as a virtue.

The novel features long speeches, including a famous monologue by John Galt that spans over 50 pages.

The characters often represent Rand's philosophical ideals rather than being fully developed individuals.

The story critiques collectivism and emphasizes the importance of personal achievement and responsibility.

Journeys of characters like Dagny Taggart and Hank Rearden reflect Rand's views on the struggles of industry against government interference.

Possible influence on modern political thought, often embraced and criticized in unequal measure.

Many readers find Rand's writing style wooden or overly verbose, which detracts from the story's engagement.

The book has gained a polarized reception, with strong admirers and equally strong detractors.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include graphic depictions of violence, themes of abuse, sexual tension that borders on discomfort, and strong ideological rhetoric.

Has Romance?

The book includes significant romantic elements, particularly through the character of Dagny Taggart and her relationships with multiple male leads.

From The Publisher:

Published in 1957, Atlas Shrugged was Ayn Rand's greatest achievement and last work of fiction. In this novel she dramatizes her unique philosophy through an intellectual mystery story that integrates ethics, metaphysics, epistemology, politics, economics, and sex. Set in a near-future U.S.A. whose economy is collapsing as a result of the mysterious disappearance of leading innovators and industrialists, this novel presents an astounding panorama of human life-from the productive genius who becomes a worthless playboy...to the great steel industrialist who does not know that he is working for his own destruction...to the philosopher who becomes a pirate...to the woman who runs a transcontinental railroad...to the lowest track worker in her train tunnels. Peopled by larger-than-life heroes and villains, charged with towering questions of good and evil, Atlas Shrugged is a philosophical revolution told in the form of an action thriller.

Ratings (64)

Incredible (5)
Loved It (17)
Liked It (9)
It Was OK (8)
Did Not Like (12)
Hated It (13)

Reader Stats (115):

Read It (68)
Want To Read (25)
Did Not Finish (1)
Not Interested (21)

1 comment(s)

ColorfulLeo92

Hated It

3 months

Eeeeek! It happens rarely (thankfully) but from time to time I come across that I find so bad I would throw it out of my home as fast as I could if I had the physical copy. I do not. Its an audio book so it's easier getting rid of. It was labeld as "the most influenceal book of our time" and I can't for the life see why. I think it's so terrible that I would make a specific corner of shame just for it to sit and think for it self. Bah

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About the Author:

Ayn Rand (1905-1982) is best known for her philosophy of Objectivism and her novels We the Living, Anthem, The Fountainhead, and Atlas Shrugged.

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