Books

Beautifully signed by Ayn Rand at front endpaper: "Ayn Rand". Rare contemporaneous signature with mid 1940s release of "The Fountainhead" featuring the distinct looped "y" in Ayn. Very attractive. Rare flat signed example; without inscription or other marks. First edition, early issue with printing errors sublicensed by original publisher Bobbs-Merrill due to wartime paper shortages. Publishers were given quotas and Blakiston had paper to spare. Original Bobbs-Merrill design with stylized gilt impresssed cover titles, green full cloth boards and matching printing plates, text design. Dark green full cloth boards, gilt cover and spine titles, light shelf, corner wear, rub. Pages near fine, clean; no writing. Exterior block remains bright and clean. Bind fine, square; hinges intact. Slight front hinge gap of apprx. 1/16"; firm and solid. Contains first edition points: page number 9 appears as o; referred mispelled refrred at 5th line of page 321; G. W. at page 381; Dominique mispelled Domininque at page 480. Preserved in early issue original wrapper, moderate edge wear, rub, crease; with unclipped 3.00, protected in new clear sleeve. Original art deco first edition design in orange and brown with white three dimensional bold block titles. Ayn Rand sepia portrait and reviews for this title at back panel. Very attractive. Rare sharp signed early printing in near very good wrapper. The Fountainhead is "rational self-interest," a view that people are more useful when improving themselves to offer most benefit to the world. It demonstrates individual achievement and productiveness over group collectivism. Roark is the embodiment of rational self-interest, as well as the Rand virtues of diligence, determination, originality and artistic excellence. The Fountainhead is a great and challenging novel based on a supreme belief in the rights of the individual. An unprecedented phenomenon in modern literature. Arguably the century's most challenging novel of ideas, when first published it created a public furor and worldwide interest in Ayn Rand. On the surface, it is the story of a gifted young architect, his violent battle with conventional standards, and his explosive love affair with the beautiful woman who struggles to defeat him. In his fight for success, he first discovers then rejects the seductive power of fame and money, finding that individual integrity must ultimately triumph. Also addresses a number of universal themes: the strength of the creative soul, the tug between good and evil, the threat of fascism, whether overt or hidden. The confrontation of these themes, along with the amazing stroke of Rand's writing, combine to give The Fountainhead its enduring influence. More relevant today than when written. 754 pages. Insured post. Size: 12mo - over 6�" - 7�" tall.

"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.