The Fountainhead by Ayn Rand

"The Fountainhead" by Ayn Rand is a classic of twentieth century American literature and a precursor to the philosophy of objectivism. Written in 1943, it is a story of Rand's iconic characters, architect Howard Roark and newspaper columnist Dominique Francon. It explores the values of individualism, self-reliance, integrity, and the pursuit of excellence.

The novel begins with Roark on trial for dynamiting a building he had designed and deemed imperfect. As Roark argues for individualism and the use of non-conformity to achieve greatness, the court sides against him, but he remains steadfast in his beliefs. He is then fired from his Architecture firm and elsewhere, due to his uncompromising principles. Despite this, he eventually lands a major design contract with a wealthy entrepreneur and sets off to build a modern-day skyscraper.

As Roark sets out to build his masterpiece, the lives of the two other main characters collide: Dominique, the beautiful, strong-willed fiancée of Roark's former employer, and Peter Keating, the ambitious, but not always ethically-minded, protégé of Roark's former firm. Their paths ultimately cross as they challenge each other's beliefs, with Dominique seeing the beauty and greatness of Roark's vision, while Peter takes the easier, more accepted path offered by his employer.

Meanwhile, Roark fights to protect his masterpiece, facing enemies such as Ellsworth Toohey, an ambitious power-broker who wants to limit Roark's individualism and break him down. As the story progresses and Roark triumphs over opposition, becoming financially and professionally successful, it ends with Roark winning both Dominique and the respect of society for his work.

The Fountainhead is celebrated for its rational and progressive beliefs on freedom, achievement, and democracy, and for its mantra of individualism. Rand's beliefs and characters in the book continue to influence the way people view success and the importance of setting and achieving goals. Roark's courage, Dominique's strength, and Toohey's hidden good intentions all create an unforgettable story of how one can overcome economic and social pressure while still achieving professional success and finding personal satisfaction. The Fountainhead is truly a timeless and meaningful story that serves to remind us of the value of staying true to one’s own beliefs and dreams.