Analysis of Equality 7-2521’s Anthem

In Ayn Rand's novella, Anthem, we get to know this guy named Equality 7-2521. He lives in a really messed-up world where being yourself is a no-go, and everyone's gotta think the same way. So what's the story about? It's all about how he breaks away from this crazy society and discovers just how awesome his own mind and individuality can be. Let's dive into how Equality 7-2521 changes as a person, the whole individualism vs. collectivism deal, and why saying "I" is such a big thing. These themes are still super relevant today.

The Journey of Change

Equality 7-2521 goes through some major changes throughout Anthem. Seriously, it's one of the coolest parts of the story. In the beginning, he's pretty much brainwashed by the society's motto: “We are one in all and all in one” (Rand, p. 7). This way of thinking really kills any sense of being an individual. But as the story moves on, he starts questioning these ideas and learns about the word “I.” That's a huge moment for him. He starts accepting his own identity and stops seeing himself as just another cog in the machine.

Collectivism vs. Individualism

This change shows us the age-old battle between collectivism and individualism. Rand uses Equality 7-2521’s journey to highlight how important it is to have individual freedom and chase personal happiness. Even today, this struggle is still happening. On one hand, we've got stuff like community and collective responsibility—think global issues like climate change or social inequality. On the flip side, personal freedom and self-expression are key to living a good life. Anthem warns us about what happens if you give up individual freedom for what people say is the greater good.

The Power of “I”

One of the most powerful things in Anthem? The word “I.” In their society, saying “I” is totally banned; people use “we” or “they” instead. This control over language shows just how hard society tries to kill any sense of self and make everyone conform. When Equality 7-2521 finds out about the word “I” and starts using it, it's like he's fighting back against oppressive forces of collectivism.

The word “I” really shows how language shapes our view of the world—not just for talking but shaping thoughts too. In Anthem, banning “I” crushes individual thought and action. Even in our world, language is super powerful for shaping public opinion and attitudes. The book reminds us that keeping language free for personal expression is crucial—and we should resist efforts to control it for ideological reasons.

Final Thoughts

In the end, Anthem makes you think hard about collectivism vs. individualism clash, power of language, and importance of personal identity. Through Equality 7-2521’s story, Ayn Rand tells us something gripping that challenges us to think about freedom, identity, and individual's role in society. Themes in Anthem still matter today—they make us rethink balance between collective responsibility vs. individual freedom—and lasting power of saying “I” in shaping our lives and communities.

References

• Ayn Rand Institute (2023). Understanding Anthem.
• Baker, S.J. (2019). The Role of Language in Dystopian Literature: An Analysis.
• Samuels, P.R., & Jordan M.T. (2018). Identity Crisis: Individuality vs Collectivism in Modern Society.
• Taylor A., & Connors F.J.(2020). Revisiting Ayn Rand: Individual Freedom Today.
• Miller J.L.(2021). Language Control as a Tool for Oppression.