The word "anthem" can be defined in several ways, such as a song of celebration, a hymn of praise or devotion, a symbol of national identity, or a statement of a group's values or beliefs. In the context of Ayn Rand's novella "Anthem," it seems that the title refers to the latter definition, a statement of values or beliefs. Given these definitions, it is clear why Ayn Rand chose to call her book "Anthem." The story is a celebration of individualism and a condemnation of collectivism. It is a call to action for people to break free from the chains of conformity and embrace their unique selves, and personality.
Chapters XI and XII are particularly significant because they represent the climax of the story. In these chapters, Equality 7-2521
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The title highlights the importance of individualism and the value of celebrating one's uniqueness, which is a central theme of the book. In the society depicted by Ayn Rand, people have no individual rights, as the community is considered ‘one’. The use of the pronoun "we" is mandatory, and any expression of individuality is punished. The protagonist, Equality 7-2521, has always felt a sense of curiosity and a desire to explore and learn, but these desires are withheld by the society in which he …show more content…
This chapter highlights the central theme of the book, which is the danger of collectivism and the importance of individualism. One quote from the book shows the discovery of “I”. “I ask none to live for me, nor do I live for any others. I covet no man's soul, nor is my soul theirs to covet. I am neither foe nor friend to my brothers, but such as each of them shall deserve of me. And to earn my love, my brothers must do more than to have been born.” This quote comes after Equality discovered his individuality, and shows him embracing his individual qualities. The quote states that Equality is not a slave to anyone anymore, and that his respect must be earned by his brothers. Overall, the protagonist's discovery of the word "I" and his realization of his own identity and value as an individual are powerful statements about the importance of individualism in a society that values conformity and