Finished with Book One

There were several things that stood out in my mind from the first book. I can't understand how Dagny could have agreed to construct the John Galt line and protect the interests of Taggart Transcontinental. Especially when her brother is against her, why would she protect that sniveling, slimy worm. I had great disdain for him when he sprung it on her that she was going to speak and debate the sleazy reporter in front of a group of people about Rearden Metal.

Several themes keep popping up:

1 - Blame - This is mentioned quite often as people make excuses about why they have not fulfilled their duties.

2 - Contradictions - There are many instances where people who speak about their circumstances and contradict themselves.

3 - Important people disappearing - Richard Halley, Midas Mulligan, Hugh Askton, and Ellis Wyatt.

4 - Shrugging - is it coincidental or part of the title. She mentions people shrugging quite a bit.

5 - Knowledge - all of the cynicism about what it is that we think we know and how it is all an illusion. The great brains of their time do a lot of spouting off about how we can't know anything, if this is true why would we believe them?

The relationship that Dagny has for Rearden is quite interesting. Is she in love with him or is she okay just being with him for physical gratification? Dagny seems at peace with her sexuality and does not view it in the negative light that Hank Rearden does, he seems to despise himself for having any desires whatsoever.

I don't understand how the people who want to take from the businesses see them as money grubbers. Businesses employ people and improve their livelihood. It does not matter how nice the people are or what they hope to do, if they are not a good risk a bank should not lend them money. As it is shown in the current economy like in the book, the companies and banks who lent money on intentions failed. When they fail, who is left to pick up the pieces? Good intentions do not pay salaries, do research, create jobs. If these businesses fail, so does the stability of those who depend on them.

I will write more soon, too much to say.