Anthem
Ayn Rand
Anthem by Ayn Rand is a dystopian novella set in a future society where individuality is forbidden and the word “I” is lost. The protagonist, Equality 7-2521, is a curious and intelligent man who dares to think independently. He discovers a hidden tunnel and rediscovers electricity. Falling in love with Liberty 5-3000, he escapes the collectivist city into the forest. There, he learns the concept of ego and reclaims his identity as "I." Renaming himself Prometheus, he vows to build a new society based on freedom, individualism, and self-worth, rejecting the oppressive doctrines of the collectivist world he left behind. - Summary by Philip sean