The Pledge Of Allegiance In Ayn Rand's Anthem

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The United States of America is one of the most prideful countries in the world. We dedicate July 4th to our independance, proudly wear red, white, and blue, and we join together in many rhymes of patriotism. The Pledge of Allegiance is one of the many ways we show our pride towards our country. In the novel Anthem, by Ayn Rand, a scripture reminiscent of the pledge is repeated by the narrator in times of temptation. The scripture, however, sends a very different message. At first glance, they seem similar, but the Pledge of Allegiance and the scripture in Anthem are almost entirely opposites. The Pledge of Allegiance is a declaration of our country being united, strong individuals. The first words are, “I pledge…” which acknowledges one’s …show more content…

The entire scripture does not mention any personal pronouns, the same way these are left out in everyday life. It’s based on “we” pledging, removing all sense of self from each being. It’s forced, as pledging from “we” means it’s coming from everyone, so to say otherwise would most likely be deemed evil. They aren’t pledging to much, either. It’s all based on the allegiance to concept of being one. In full, the scripture is, “We are one in all and all in one. There are no men but only the great WE, One, indivisible and forever” (Rand 14). In the Pledge of Allegiance they pledge under god, but there is nothing to pledge under in this society. Ultimately, someone holds the power, but the idea projected by the society’s existence itself is unquestionable equality. This being said, there isn’t much depth to the scripture, as looking too deep will lead you to a dead end. There is little logic behind it, and overall doesn’t make too much sense. An individual pledging for its entire community by themselves without their own identity is one large paradox that doesn’t add up, no matter which way you try to solve