In a future where society forbids individual thought and enforces collective identity, Equality 7-2521 stands apart, driven by a desire for knowledge. Despite being assigned as a Street Sweeper, he secretly conducts experiments in an abandoned tunnel, ultimately rediscovering electricity. His curiosity also leads him to form a forbidden bond with Liberty 5-3000, a woman who shares his longing for freedom. Together, they begin to question the oppressive laws that prevent personal expression and discovery, setting them on a path toward understanding the power of self-identity.
Anthem by Ayn Rand holds historical importance as an early exploration of individualism and a critique of totalitarianism, published during an era marked by rising collectivist ideologies. Written in 1937 and later published in the United States, the novella reflects Rand's disapproval of oppressive regimes, drawing on her experiences in Soviet Russia. Through its stark portrayal of a society that suppresses individual identity, Anthem serves as a warning against the loss of personal freedom, inspiring readers to value independent thought. Its themes have continued to influence debates around personal liberty, making it a notable work in 20th-century political literature.