what does this quote from Anthem mean?
What is my joy if all hands, even the unclean, can reach into it? What is my wisdom, if even the fools can dictate to me? What is my freedom, if all creatures, even the botched and the impotent, are my masters? What is my life, if I am but to bow, to agree and obey? Ayn Rand-Anthem
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I never really cared for this book, but it did prove interesting. By the looks of it, Equality has already found his individuality (by the use of “I”) and is contemplating on his former life. Essentially, the character is saying that unless you are in control, you can’t get anything out of life. You can’t gain wisdom, because you do what you’re told. You can’t take pride in your work because it’s the group’s work, not your own. And of course, you can’t call yourself free if you are being manipulated by incompetent leaders.
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It means that “if I can’t control all aspects of my life, I have no real joy, freedom, or meaningful life itself.” Ayn Rand believed in individuality and had no respect for anyone who would take orders from or allowed themselves to be controlled by other people
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