Fountainhead

It has been more than a month since I read Fountainhead. Some of my friends think that it is a novel so good that it makes reader think about it for a long time and in affects them deeply. But I guess then I am exception to the rule. It's not that I did not like the novel, I really liked the novel but just not so moved by it.

The story and character development of the novel is really good. Ayn Rand , the writer has taken great effort to make character as detailed as possible . She has taken time in letting the plot development be gradual and detailed. The writer's philosophy of objectivism is really enlightening . Although I have not gone into details of it but the overall idea that I got from the novel is really interesting. The novel shows a different light to independence and dependency, art and artist ,love and success.

(Spoilers Ahead)

Peter Keating is the most familiar character in the novel. He is a person driven by glory of success so much that he forgets his self, ego , love all for the sake of glory. His character seemed quite normal at the start of the novel but by the end of it had turned into a complete disaster.

Elsworth Toohey is a really interesting character in the novel. At start of the novel he seems like an epitome of good . Its only later that his ulterior motives are revealed.

Gail Wynand is almost a hero but just could not make the cut finally. He is a really determined person but just could not get through the final hurdle.

Howard Roark the protagonist is really one of a kind guy. His view of life is unique, his philosophy of life is intriguing and the way he finally pulls it off in the end is also terrific.

Dominique Francon is the female lead in the novel . Her character goes a lot of change of colors in the course of the novel.

The story overall seems to be well paced but it drags a bit towards the middle but it accelerates to a good climax finally . The climax is dramatic , over the top you may say, unrealistic yet entertaining.

So I would recommend this novel to anyone who has got little time to spare and is patient enough to hold through some character development phase in the novel where story tends to become a bit slack. If you get chance to read it , just read it . It will influence you I don't know to what extent but it will amuse you at least .