Books

RAND, Ayn: Anthem SIGNED "Author's Binding" of Anthem, the most elusive Ayn Rand acquisition. ONE OF FEWER THAN 50 COPIES DESIGNED/SIGNED/GIFTED BY AYN RAND AND INTENDED ONLY FOR HER PRIVATE DISTRIBUTION. Following the success of her breakthrough novel The Fountainhead and Warner Bros purchase of its movie rights, Rand, now financially successful, ordered a custom red leather binding of Anthem she would sign and send to colleagues, friends, and associates. According to Rand's bibliographer, Vincent Perinn, the number of copies Rand ordered was "fewer than 50, most of which are inscribed for presentation." Rand had revised Anthem in 1946 for American publication, editing for style, rewording some passages, and cutting some excessive language. "No idea or incident was added or omitted; the theme, content and structure are untouched" (From Rand's Foreword). This bespoke copy of Anthem has the same pedigree as the First American Edition, Second Issue, which had a first printing run…

"Anthem" by Ayn Rand is a thought-provoking novella that explores themes of individualism, collectivism, and the power of the human spirit in a dystopian society. Set in a future world where technological advancement has regressed, people live in a highly regulated society where individuality is suppressed and personal pronouns like "I" and "me" are forbidden. The protagonist, Equality 7-2521, rebels against this collectivist society as he discovers his own sense of self. Equality 7-2521 is a young man who yearns for knowledge and freedom. He discovers an underground tunnel from the Unmentionable Times, where he conducts forbidden experiments and makes groundbreaking discoveries. However, his discoveries are condemned by the authorities who believe in a society where everyone is equal and collective happiness is valued above personal fulfillment. During his journey, Equality 7-2521 meets Liberty 5-3000, a woman who shares his desire for freedom. They begin to develop feelings for each other, which is forbidden in their society. They break free from the constraints of their collectivist world and explore their individuality together. As they venture beyond the boundaries of their society, Equality 7-2521 rediscovers the lost concept of the word "I" and embraces his own identity. He realizes the significance of individualism and the power of independent thought. The novella culminates in Equality 7-2521 rejecting the society's dogmas and embracing his own free will and individuality. "Anthem" serves as a powerful critique of collectivism and authoritarianism, championing the importance of individualism, personal identity, and the pursuit of knowledge and happiness. It highlights the resilience of the human spirit against oppressive systems and celebrates the value of individual freedom and self-discovery.

The first edition of 'Anthem' by Ayn Rand was published in the UK. It was a hardcover edition with a blue cloth binding and the publisher's logo on the cover. The first edition can be identified by the publisher's name, Cassell, on the spine and the absence of any mention of subsequent printings or editions.