The Fountainhead studies the conflict between artistic genius and social convention, a theme Ayn Rand later developed into the idealistic philosophy knows as Objectivism. Rand's hero is Howard Roark, a brilliant young architect who won't compromise his integrity, especially in the unconventional buildings he designs. Roark is engaged in ideological warfare with a society that despises him, an architectural community that doens't understand him, and a woman who loves him but wants to destroy him. His struggle raises questions about society's attitude toward revolutionaries. Since this book's publication in 1943, Rand's controversial ideas have made her one of the best-selling authors of all time.
I like my heroes with orange hair.
Reviewer bex
September 02, 2009
This is a fine reading of a great book. As far as storytelling goes, I much prefer The Fountainhead to Atlas Shrugged. This book/audio book should be the starting point for anyone interested in Ayn Rand. It may be long, but it's so fascinating and full of suspense, you'll be finished before you know it.