We
Zamiatin, Evgenii Ivanovich
"We" by Evgenii Ivanovich Zamiatin is a dystopian novel written in the early 20th century. The story is narrated by D-503, a mathematician and builder of the spaceship Integral, as he documents life in a highly controlled society called the United State. Set in a future where individuality is suppressed in favor of conformity, the narrative explores themes of freedom, creativity, and the struggle against a mechanized existence. As D-503 navigates his regulated world, he begins to question the values of his society, particularly when he encounters the enigmatic I-330.  The opening of "We" introduces D-503 as he starts his records, initially expressing pride in the rigid structure of his life within the United State. He describes the completion of the Integral, a project aimed at spreading their way of living to other planets, showcasing the state's belief in enforcing happiness through order. Through his reflections, we see a blend of awe for the mechanical perfection around him and hints of unrest as he encounters personal emotions that challenge his mathematical worldview. A significant moment occurs when he meets I-330, who sparks conflicting feelings and ideas within him, hinting at the awakening of his suppressed individuality. The tension between D-503's desire for order and the chaotic allure of freedom sets the stage for his internal conflict throughout the narrative. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
Dystopias -- Fiction Russian fiction -- Translations into English Science fiction Totalitarianism -- Fiction
Category: Novels Category: Russian Literature Category: Science-Fiction & Fantasy