2006-10-18 21:28:39 · 6 answers · asked by Gina N 3 in Arts & Humanities ➔ Books & Authors
I wasn't crazy about the premise when I first read it. I don't know how realistic it is to state that one's identity necessarily is & should be tied to what they do for a living, presupposing as it does that you do what you love and will strive to do what you are good at. But I enjoyed it more after re-reading "Fountainhead," which is my favorite by her (though I've only read 3). I also gained a new appreciation for it after I became friends with someone who was really great in their job. I would agree that she does use rather too much melodrama in her writing, but then again, that was still the style of the times. I guess overall I greatly respect Rand & a lot of her philosophy, but I can't quite reconcile myself totally with the idea that you are what you do (we need dishwashers & receptionists, but these are not actually callings, and few could or would eek out an identity in a lot of fields), nor that only the most gifted of all gifted people have the market cornered on worth.
2006-10-19 04:39:39 · answer #1 · answered by jakomo 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
When you read Ayn Rand she is plausible, and she writes well enough that one gets swept along with her ideas. But in the end,
should her worldview prevail, I would not like to live in that world.
2006-10-19 13:06:17 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I disliked it intensely. Ayn Rand's books are self-indulgent tripe. They rank up there with Susan Sontag.
Generally, I do have a very open mind. Her writing style is poor and you have a fair idea of how self-important she is.
2006-10-19 09:10:28 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
It is an excellent book. I'm a big Ayn Rand fan so I'm biased. I loved it.
2006-10-19 04:36:02 · answer #4 · answered by happygogilmore2004 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
A very powerful, compelling story which is effective and forceful in shaping your thoughts and ideas, if you are open to accepting new ideas ---read it without prejudices.
However, it is a thick, fat, 'magnum opus', which may put you off if you like to hold only slim books. you can always use 'Atlas Shrugged' as a pillow, if you require one at a pinch!
2006-10-19 04:37:05 · answer #5 · answered by thegentle Indian 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I read this book the first time many years ago, and have re-read it many times since then. Along with The Source by James Michener I think it was one of the truly great pieces of American literature.
2006-10-19 05:24:12 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋