We especially want to thank those FReepers who forced us on occasion to check our premises, which forced us to change both narrative and questions. When it comes to peer review, FReepers rock!
Thank you for making this such a wonderful experience.
I bought Atlas Shrugged from a used book sale, and it looked brand new. The previous owner probably never opened it. Then it sat on my shelf for years. In January, when reality began to mirror Atlas Shrugged, there was much talk on the radio and elsewhere about starting book clubs to read it. But, none that I know materialized. You made it happen. If you hadn't, I never would have found the time to read this book. This book club was very successful, especially considering the size and all the challenges of this story.
I may have disagreed with a few of Rand's statements, but her theories on economics affirmed my beliefs. And, ironically, I learned more about morality from this book - more specifically, self-respect and the moral obligation we each have to look out for our own self interests. In a way, Rand is hitting people over the head with this big, thick book - knocking some sense into us. I always believed in the value of individualism, but I never understood the moral obligation behind it.
Thank you, again. Looking forward to another FReeper book club, but I'm sure you need a break after this one. ;-)
This text caught my eye upon a second reading:
“. . .looters. Their methods are law. They are secure in the knowledge that their enemies are law-abiding. They flatter themselves that they are equal in virtue to the producers as all are merely thieves. They feel superior to the producers as they are the more successful thieves. In a world where all economic activity is theft, success in thievery is the logical summit of society and the rightful task of those who sit there.”
A statement which most accurately describes Obama and his followers, IMHO. And, some Republicans, sadly.
These modern day looters mean to destroy us, and if we sit idly by, they will.
As part of our commitment not to sit idly by and let the looters win, my wife and I will attend the September 12 March on Washington.
Will I see any of you there?
Google “09.12.09 March on Washington” for more info.
Just a thought. Would Rand's harsh treatment of the Wet Nurse, Cheryl, and Eddie been easier to take if any of the super heros had met a similar fate?
Thank you again. I especially look forward to reviewing these threads during the winter when there aren't the usual distractions of the too short summers of Michigan.
To wit: Mozart Was a Red
Thanks for all you’ve done.
I’d just like to echo the kudos given to you by others. While I only lurked and didn’t participate in the discussion, I have to thank you both for the great job and time contributed to this book. I first read Atlas Shrugged years ago and your insight reinforced many of the feelings I experienced during that journey.
Cheers!
Thank you so much for all your hard work. I started quite late and didn’t comment, but I read every thread and every comment. I enjoyed the analysis and insight and I look forward to the next book. Hopefully, I will start it timely and be able to keep up and comment.
Congratulations on an impressive work in its own right. Myriad attempts have been made to interpret, redefine, deconstruct, and discredit Rand, but her work stands as a sterling (if somewhat didactic) paean to the worth of the individual over the collective. It appears you’ve captured that intent in your analysis. May it become a valuable addition to the body of work around this iconic author.
I ordered your new book....I just started reading AS again after @34 years...it will be VERY helpful...good luck!
Bump for later read...