We

A mathematician in a glass-enclosed city discovers his individuality in We, a powerful dystopian novel exploring freedom and oppression.

Set in a glass-enclosed city characterized by absolute straight lines, We presents a chilling vision of a totalitarian society known as OneState. Here, the citizens live under the oppressive rule of the all-powerful 'Benefactor', leading lives stripped of passion and creativity. The protagonist, D-503, a mathematician who perceives the world through numbers, embarks on a transformative journey of self-discovery. He realizes that he possesses an individual soul, awakening him to the possibilities of personal freedom in a society that demands conformity.

Yevgeny Zamyatin's We is a seminal work of dystopian fiction that not only critiques the repressive nature of totalitarian regimes but also serves as a precursor to later classics such as George Orwell's 1984 and Aldous Huxley's Brave New World. Written in the early 1920s and suppressed for decades, this novel explores the tension between individuality and societal control, making it a timeless commentary on the human condition. The Penguin Classics edition, translated by Clarence Brown, offers a fresh perspective on this powerful narrative, which resonates deeply in today's world.

Zamyatin, a naval engineer turned writer, faced persecution for his beliefs in creative freedom. His experiences shaped We, which was first published in Russia in 1988 after years of censorship. Through D-503's journey, readers are invited to reflect on the importance of individuality and the dangers of a society that prioritizes order over personal expression. This novel remains a compelling exploration of the struggle for freedom and the human spirit's resilience.