Book Review-The Fountain Head

By-Ayn Rand
The Fountainhead by Ayn Rand originally published in April 15, 1953 is one of
Ayn Rands first fictional writing which brings her philosophy of Objectivism to
the world. The book is as much about the story as it is to bring Objectivism to the
world. The whole focus is on the main character, Howard Roark, throughout the
book. Even when he is not directly involved in the scene, he is a part of the
context. Characterization is a major part of the how Rand develops the story, and
all the major characters are representatives of certain ideals and values which
Rand espouses. So the conflict between various characters are also
representative of conflicts of various ideologies and showing this was one of the
book's major functions.
The novels protagonist, Howard Roark is not the most loved person. He is not
even the most liked person. But his strength lies in his belief of being indifferent
to all except his work. He is a compulsive dreamer, a man so honest, that he has
never been affected by the frivolities of the world. His behaviour may come
across as rude, but his mind-set is clear, as he aims to break through the
conventions of the world. He is honest, and blunt. A man so emotionally strong
and content that work gives him the ultimate joy.
On the other hand, we have Peter Keating, frivolous and close minded. His main
aim is to achieve success by hook or by crook. Unlike Howard, he is not a
dreamer and thus gains popularity by being the superiors pet or by diluting the
importance of others.
Rand has created the plot of such a serious novel with love, ego, jealousy and
passion, all well balanced. Dominique (Howards love), Gail Wynand, and Toohey
make a mark as their characters have been uncompromisingly described.
This book is the ultimate classic. Telling the story of a hardworking and never
compromising Howard Roark, who is trialed by his school, his superiors, his love
and the law. Affected only by his work and love, he emerges as the ultimate
winner in the end. Ayn Rand, teaches the reader to dream and be the most
honest with his work. Drawing a contrast between Howard and Peter, the author
justifies Peters selfishness as his weakness, and in the end, the reader is filled
not with hatred, but with deep pity for him. It is the writers passion for her work
that is reflected in through Roarks character.
Drawing out very simple, but true images of the characters, their described
physical appearances explains their nature. The book is easy to read but lengthy.
Portraying different types of people from the different walks of life, all in a single
maze, is definitely a triumph for the author. There is a scene when the court
allows Roark to talk uninterrupted for a substantial length of time, a dialogue
that spans many pages. Those familiar with Ayn Rand's fiction will recognize the
theme of the uninterrupted long speech made by the brilliant hero at the end to
be a recurring one in her novels, a device utilized by the author to have her
characters serve as her mouthpiece. Rand's fictional characters are developed as
avatars of her ideas, who participate in the plot not only to advance it, but also
to represent, through their unfolding development, the gradual revelation of
Rand's philosophical worldview as the novel progresses.
This book is a work of fiction, but has been influenced by peoples behaviour and
leanings. It has been inspiring readers worldwide and has also proved to be a
major influence and a turning point in many of their lives. Ayn Rand manages to
astonish the reader with her boldness in writing, and simplicity in reasoning
despite the fact that her world-view might seem to nave or simplistic in
hindsight. She is truly a master of words, thought and of course, the creator of a
legend.
Aparna Agnihotri
B.Tech 3rd yr. EEE