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Summary: This is a great storyline to a great philosophy!
Review: This is one of the best books I have ever read, it's romantic, philosophical, and is one of those books, after you get deep into it, makes you stop and think about not only objectivism, but your own code of morals and beliefs... one of the best books of our generation, and a definite must read!
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Summary: Fantastic Book!
Review: I could not put it down. Before I read this book, I didn't know books like this existed. Greatly written, Ayn Rand, a champion of intellect portrays one who will not break for what he knows as wrong. One of the best books I have read, all 727 pages of it.
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Summary: Do I disagree with it? Yes, but still a great story!
Review: After having it suggested to me many times, I finally had a chance to read The Fountainhead. I was skeptical at first, and as far as Rand's philosophy, I still am kind of wonder, but the book was great. I couldn't put it down. I certainly don't feel that Objectivism and selfishness are the answer to the world's problems. Even still, I think Rand presents an interesting problem. How many people in this world are like Peter Keating! Doing what everybody else wants you to do, gaining success and social "standing," and yet still unhappy. Although Roark could use some people skills, atleast he does what makes him happy. (Although we should avoid extreme measures like Roark's behavior towards the end of the book.) I think anyone who has tried to present a new idea to old bureaucrats, will understand the problems Roark ran into when trying to present new architecture. Sadly, most will give in to the set "ideal" that society has determined. I respect men and women who responsibly stick to their own ideals. (Note the word responsible, Roark wasn't always.) All-in-all a great book I think everyone should have a chance to read. Remember, Rand wrote these books to express her Philosophy. So don't be surprised like many are that there is a lot of philosophy in this book. Also, some may say that this philosophy is simple to understand and straightforward, so it isn't worth reading. I disagree. Unlike Kant, Hegel and countless other philosophers, Rand has had some writing training, which makes her philosophy a little eaiser to understand. Also, take some time to read Kant, Mill, Aristotle, Plato, James, Sarte, etc. before you decide Rand's philosophy is the answer.
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Summary: An exalted view of man and his efficacy
Review: Ayn Rand wrote that "man is a being of self-made soul." (ATLAS SHRUGGED) This is true of each and every man; it is an inescapable fact. In this novel, Miss Rand shows that there are two basic alternatives in life, i.e, in choosing how to make one's soul: individualism or collectivism.Roark, the intransigent architect, is the concretization of individualism. Despite countless obstacles, temptations, and misfortunes, Roark never compromises his virtues. He is a man of principle in the strictest meaning of the word. He is an ideal man and a hero in a world devoid of both. Almost every other character, in varying degree, has embodied the soul of the collectivist, commonly referred to throughout the novel as the "parasite" and the "second-hander." This is done justifiably, and it is convincingly shown why. After the reader finishes this masterpiece, try Ayn Rand's ATLAS SHRUGGED.
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Summary: What is not to like?
Review: I always wonder at the anger that this book elicits from some critics, the hatred of and fear of the ideas Ayn Rand expresses. I wonder what, specifically, these readers find so offensive. The idea that individual thought and achievement must be respected? The idea that people are intelligent enough to run their own lives and do so best with the least interference from government or other "well-meaning" groups? That people have a just claim on the rewards of their own hard work? That people have the right to think and live for themselves, rather than according to the will of others? Are these ideas so frightening? Aren't they the very ideas upon which this wonderful experiement, The United States, was founded? Or perhaps what galls critics is Ayn Rand's observation that great advancements invariably begin with the vision of a determined individual, whereas mediocrity invariably seeks (and finds) the comfort of numbers, and then congratulates itself for having achieved "consensus." Critics seem particularly fond of explaining that they loved The Fountainhead at seventeen, but now from the advanced wisdom of their adult years, realize that Rand was all wrong, that "real life doesn't work that way." Perhaps Rand's idealism is, in fact, unsuited to the real world of grown up people. Or perhaps dismissing Rand's idealism is merely an attempt to dignify one's own compromises and capitulations. Either way, Ayn Rand and The Fountainhead deserve to be celebrated and admired for appealing to that part of ourselves that continues to believe in the possibilities of the unfettered mind, that part that is forever seventeen.
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Summary: Things that make you say hmmmm ...
Review: A bit long, but a fulfilling read in the end. The Objectivism theory certainly has its good points, though taken to the extreme it would make the world populated by insensitive, uncaring bastards like Roark. There doesn't have to be an absolute choice, altuism or selfishness: you can practice both and still be true to your soul. But woe to those who become second-handers - they are the mesmerized zombies of society. There is not a likable character in this book, but it's still oddly compelling to read.
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Summary: Charity at it's Best
Review: I give this book five stars for many reasons. I developed deep respect for Howard Roark's profound intelligence and insights. Peter Keating keeps me on my toes throughout the book. I found myself leading a quest for his integrity. What I liked best about the book was the appreciation it gave me for the world concept of charity and gift giving. The world cannot afford for each individual to believe as Howard does. In the real world man requires more assistance from man than he acknowledges. Five stars for Ayn Rand's wisdom and insights. Perhaps the book is less about self and more about the importance of charity.
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Summary: Thought Provoking and Interesting Novel
Review: The Fountainhead is a book meant for the intellectual. Ayn Rand expresses her philosophy of Objectivism through Howard Roark marvelously. Even the most devout altruist may reconsider his beliefs after reading this novel. Egoism as the fountainhead of human existance is an idea that can not be challenged easily.
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Summary: Shocked
Review: The Fountianhead went against all human concepts of mercy, brotherhood, and what we all consider common decency. It attacked religion, democracy, and so many of the pillars of our modern society. It had no respect whatsoever for the common man. It glorified those who had complete diregard for the values, thoughts, and feelings of others, while villifying those who were dedicated to creating a Christian sense of brotherhood among men and working to build a kinder, more humble society. Numerous people, including politicians, clergymen, and humanitarians, have rightfully denounced The Fountainhead for its glorification of selfishness, and it's arrogant diregard for societal norms. Needless to say, I loved The Fountainhead. It's one of my favorite books of all time.
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Summary: For the record:
Review: Those puzzled, unimpressed, unmoved, undecided--reread. Those disinterested, unmotivated, lacking initiative, disheartened by the number of pages need to read. To experience, understand and internalize "The Fountainhead" is a must. Until then, one can never truly understand the nature of man, nor his fury.
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