Power of Emotions by Michelle

Power of Emotions by Michelle - July 2013 Scholarship Essay

        Ayn Rand’s novel Anthem explores the power of feelings through her character Equality 7-2521. He bottles up hate, love, and hope in his heart; all of these emotions inevitably disrupt the natural order of the collectivist society in which Equality lives. This city does not allow for any individuality. He develops a hatred for conformity which fuels him to defy the rules. Loving another person also goes against Equality’s society, but Equality does fall in love with a fellow woman gatherer. This love wills Equality to establish a place for him and his beloved where they could freely express their emotions. The potency of Equality’s hope finally frees Equality from the collectivist society. In the novel, Equality hopes to make his community brighter, and lead by his hope, Equality creates an electric light bulb. This light would illuminate the town even in darkness; however, the scholars of the city resent Equality’s invention because he broke the social order. Equality decides to escape the society, so he can act as individual. His beloved eventually finds him in his forest home. There, the pair thrives on each other’s love and hope for a brighter future, and they leave behind their hate of collectivism.         Anthem by Ayn Rand remains my favorite book I have read in school because it promotes individualism. Also, I loved the style in which Rand wrote this piece. It truly shows the negativity of collectivism by removing the word “I” and replacing it with the words “we” and “us”. In life, many people try to assimilate and end up losing what makes them unique. By reading this book, I hope that others find the inspiration to live life as an individual. Without true individuals, darkness will dominate our society.