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We by Yevgeny Zamyatin
3.0
dark tense fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: No
Loveable characters: No
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Complicated

A pioneering work of dystopian fiction that explores themes of individuality, freedom, and the dangers of a collectivist state. Its abstract and philosophical tone can be challenging to follow at times. The fragmented structure mirrors D-503’s psychological unraveling, but it can leave readers feeling disoriented. Additionally, the character development, especially of secondary figures, feels sparse, making it harder to connect emotionally with the story. The prose is both poetic and dense, with vivid mathematical imagery that immerses the reader into the glass-walled world of the "One State." A visionary but occasionally difficult read, We is best appreciated for its influence and bold ideas rather than for its narrative flow or character depth. Despite these shortcomings, I can see it as a thought-provoking and historically significant novel that laid the groundwork for later dystopian classics like 1984 and Brave New World. However, the abstract narrative and lack of emotional depth might not appeal to all readers, making it a mixed but worthwhile experience.