I am just 150 pages into the
700 something page long book and I wish to put up my first review of it.
The frequent visitors of my blog would know that I had put up an article 'Writing styles' in reference to this book, you may say this is a continuation of it.
The first very visible attribute is the writer’s writing style, which I have mentioned in my earlier post. The next thing you would notice is the immaculate description of all the locations and scenes by the writer. The description will not make you feel as if the plot is happening right before you, by what makes it stand apart is the immense architectural terminology used. Good writers would describe every event in so detail that you would feel that you are right in the scene, but here after reading the thorough descriptions, you would pause to admire the research and the depth of architecture expressed in every scene.
In the preface, Ayn says that it was difficult for her to write an architectural themed book as she had no idea about architecture; but once you read the book, you would know why it was difficult. She has not only written a book about architects, but actually stepped into the shoes of one. The intricacies would astound you. An architect would definitely 'relish' this book.
About the characters, what I notice in this book is a depiction of certain traits which can be noticed elsewhere too. What I am referring to is the character of Dominique Francon; in one word, apathetic. Maybe that’s not the right word, but I cannot think of any other word to describe her either. She is devilishly beautiful, with an air of arrogance that would choke a man a kilometer from her. Her hurtful rudeness would make an eavesdropper (on a conversation) shiver with Goosebumps, not to mention the fate of the other party in the conversation. With such features, she is still the only female who captures every heart. Her dad fears... Err... dreads talking to her; her boss hates her guts and yet is so attracted to her physically, that he ignores all the bullshit she throws at him.
Such a character can be seen in many of the soaps running on TV in India now-a-days. An unimaginable hot female with such a turn-down sense, that you may never raise your head again, who everyone 'wants'. I wonder what does the author wish to convey through such a character? I have never understood the meaning or reason of defining such a character.
The next and the center of the plot is Howard Roark. A genius, with a frank and don’t care attitude. Never thinks of the consequences of his actions but is sure of them. Takes all the right steps, is un-realistically optimistic and righteous. In contrast to Dominique, is extremely polite and sees through other people as if they were a transparent as glass. Somehow it is quite obvious after just 150 pages that he is going to fall in love with Dominique, or the other way around.
The third central character is of Peter Keating. A cut-throat architect, who is certain of what he wants in life and is willing to do (almost) everything for it. Much like the typical working person in today's world. He is portrayed as the evil character in the story, but if you ask me, there is a lot one can learn from him. His determination for one, his diplomacy which may not be a quality appreciated but everyone, but deep down, you know it's importance.
It is a good book till now, gives you a lot of points to pause (reading) and think about.
Will post more about the book soon...
Poka...
