Books

Rand, Ayn. The Fountainhead. New York: The Bobbs-Merrill Company, 1943. First edition printing. Octavo. Rebound in modern red half calf leather and marbled boards, with gilt tooling and titles to the spine, and the original dust jacket bound-in. Presented is a first edition printing of The Fountainhead by Ayn Rand. The Fountainhead is Ayn Rand's best-selling and unforgettable celebration of the individual spirit. The book is rebound in stunning red half calf leather and marbled boards, with gilt tooling and titles to the spine, and the original dust jacket bound-in. From 1935-1943, Rand worked as a secretary in an architectural firm, during which time she wrote The Fountainhead, her first Objectivist novel and her first bestseller. The book follows the protagonist Howard Roark, a young architect struggling to stay true to his own vision against more conventional and mainstream ideas. As the original dust jacket explained, "This book is based on a challenging belief in the importance of selfishness, on the provocative idea that man's ego is the fountainhead of human progress." Initially rejected by twelve publishers, and firing one over publicity plans, Rand finally found a publisher in Bobbs-Merrill. She released The Fountainhead in 1943. Just 7500 copies were initially printed. Despite harsh criticism, the book gradually found its audience and became one of the high spots of American literature. Rand later would also write the screenplay for the film version of the novel, released in 1949 and starring Gary Cooper and Patricia Neal. CONDITION: Very good condition overall. First edition. Octavo. Rebound in modern red half calf leather and marbled boards, with gilt tooling and titles to the spine, and the original dust jacket bound-in. Interior pages are healthy and clean.

"The Fountainhead" by Ayn Rand, published in 1943, is a novel that delves into the philosophical concepts of individualism, integrity, and the conflict between creativity and conformity. The story revolves around Howard Roark, an ambitious and talented architect with a unique vision for innovative designs. Roark embodies uncompromising individualism and refuses to conform to societal expectations or compromise his artistic integrity. He believes in creating buildings that reflect his artistic vision rather than pandering to popular architectural trends. As Roark faces the challenges of the architectural world, his unconventional approach draws criticism and opposition from traditional architects and critics. His refusal to adhere to established conventions leads to rejection from architectural firms and clients who prefer safer, more conventional designs. Despite these setbacks, Roark remains steadfast in his commitment to his principles. The novel contrasts Roark’s individualism with Peter Keating, an architect who succeeds by conforming to popular tastes and compromising his artistic integrity. Keating is conventional, willing to sacrifice his own beliefs and ideas to gain social approval and advancement in his career. Dominique Francon, an independent and complex woman, becomes entangled in Roark’s life. Initially skeptical of Roark’s ideas, she becomes fascinated by his integrity and strength of character. Their relationship undergoes various challenges due to Dominique’s inner conflicts and societal pressures. Enter the character of Ellsworth Toohey, a critic who represents collectivism and mediocrity. Toohey seeks to manipulate public opinion and destroy individualistic ideals, advocating conformity and suppressing true talent. The novel culminates in a dramatic trial where Roark defends his artistic integrity against society’s attempts to stifle his individualism. He passionately argues for the right of the creator to maintain control over their work without compromising their vision for the sake of societal norms or approval. Through Roark’s unwavering dedication to his principles, Ayn Rand illustrates her philosophy of objectivism, advocating for individualism, rational self-interest, and the pursuit of personal excellence. "The Fountainhead" serves as a vehicle for Rand’s beliefs in the importance of individual creativity and integrity, and it continues to provoke discussions about the role of the individual in society, the nature of artistic expression, and the conflict between individualism and collectivism.