Books

New York & London: various publishers, 1936 - 1957. First edition of each volume. ANTHEM, the most elusive of Rand's first editions, IS STILL IN ITS ORIGINAL BINDING and housed in a custom slipcase matching the bindings of the other three volumes which are all finely bound in matching full red leather with gilt-stamped leather spine labels and marbled endpapers. WE THE LIVING (New York: Macmillan, 1936): small chip to lower corner title page, marginal stains to few interior pages. ANTHEM (London: Cassell, 1938): spine slightly cocked, name on first blank, professional repair to spine ends (small tears mended). THE FOUNTAINHEAD (Indianapolis & New York: Bobbs-Merrill, 1943): front endpaper lightly marked. ATLAS SHRUGGED (New York: Random House, 1957): text block falling away slightly at head of spine. A desirable, visually pleasing set of the only 4 novels published in her lifetime.

"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.