Books

Rand, Ayn. Atlas Shrugged. New York: Random House, 1957. First edition, first impression. Octavo printing. In original publisher's green cloth hardcover boards and first edition, unclipped dust jacket. Presented with an archival 1/4 leather and cloth clamshell case. This is the first edition, first impression, of one of literature s most popular and influential novels of the 20th century. A high spot in 20th century literature, Atlas Shrugged was Ayn Rand's fourth and final novel, based on her principles of Objectivist philosophy. Taking twelve years to write, the novel is a dramatization of Rand s unique vision of existence and man s unique potential. The novel explores themes of reason and freedom, the nobility of business, and the importance of thought over desires. After completing this novel, Rand turned to nonfiction and published works on her philosophy for the rest of her career. From 1943 until its publication in 1957, [Rand] worked on the book that many say is her masterpiece, Atlas Shrugged. This novel describes how a genius named John Galt grows weary of supporting a society of ungrateful parasites and one day simply shrugs and walks away. He becomes an inspiration to like-minded men and women, all of whom eventually follow his example, until society, in its agony, calls them back to responsibility and respect. Again [as with Rand s novel The Fountainhead in 1943] reviews were unsympathetic, and again people bought the book (ANB). Random House first published Atlas Shrugged on October 10, 1957. The initial print run was 100,000 copies. Despite facing harsh criticism upon release, based on Rand s views on religion, communism, and capitalism, the demand for this book continues still to this day. It has never been out of print since it was first published over fifty years ago. By 1984 more than five million copies of Atlas Shrugged had been sold, and in a 1991 Library of Congress survey a majority of Americans named it, second only to the Bible, as the book that had most influenced their lives. CONDITION: Very good condition overall. First edition, first printing. Octavo. In publisher's original green cloth hardcover boards with gilt titles and original publisher's dust jacket. Dust jacket is not price-clipped, has $6.95 price and 10/57 on front inside flap and publisher's full address to rear inside flap. Bright dust jacket, with only minor edge wear to dust jacket at spine and folds, slight chipping to head of spine, and small abrasions to front and spine of dust jacket. Interior pages clean, without issue or marks. Presented with a new 1/4 leather and cloth clamshell case, with raised bands, gilt tooling, and gilt titles to the spine, and an inlay illustration go the dust jacket on the front of the clamshell. Book Dimensions: 8 3/4"H x 6 1/16"W x 2 3/16"D. Clamshell Dimensions: 9 7/8"H x 7 1/8"W x 2 3/4"D.

"Atlas Shrugged" by Ayn Rand is a monumental novel that presents a dystopian vision of the United States. Set in a society where government regulations stifle individual initiative and innovation, the story follows the lives of various characters as they navigate a world descending into economic collapse and social decay. The novel primarily revolves around Dagny Taggart, an innovative railroad executive, and Hank Rearden, a talented steel magnate. As they strive to maintain their businesses amidst increasing government interference and societal decline, they encounter various obstacles that hinder their efforts to pursue their visions. A mysterious figure known as John Galt becomes a central enigma in the narrative. Galt is the symbol of a growing resistance movement among the country's most productive and talented individuals, who begin to disappear without a trace. They withdraw from a society that does not appreciate their efforts and stifles their freedom, believing in the philosophy of "going on strike" against a system that suppresses individualism and rewards mediocrity. As the nation faces an economic crisis and societal breakdown, Dagny and Hank discover a hidden valley where the vanished innovators have created their own utopian society based on individualism, free will, and personal achievement. John Galt reveals his philosophy, advocating for the idea that "the mind on strike" is the source of human progress and that individuals should not sacrifice their talents and ambitions for the sake of others. Throughout the novel, Ayn Rand presents her philosophy of Objectivism, emphasizing reason, individualism, and rational self-interest. The narrative delves into complex themes of morality, capitalism, the role of government, and the pursuit of personal happiness. "Atlas Shrugged" is a philosophical epic that critiques collectivism and advocates for the rights of the individual. It portrays the consequences of suppressing individual freedom and ambition while celebrating the importance of human innovation, creativity, and the pursuit of one's own happiness.