Inspirational Books - Essay Example

Inspirational booksThe Fountainhead written by Ayn Rand has been such an inspirational book that provided the impetus for pursuing a career in architecture. The most meaningful message relayed by the author was embodied in the ideals of its main character, Howard Roark: to remain steadfast on one’s convictions and have the courage to fight for one’s philosophies in life.Before I came to America, I was determined to pursue an architecture degree and become an architect one day. Dreams, personal and professional goals are most often concocted out of external influences that prod one to delve into specific endeavors.

The field of architecture has persistently intrigued me in terms of providing opportunities to express one’s innate talent, creative and innovative skills to think outside the box and shake off conformity to traditionalism and conventional styles. But sitting alone in a stranger’s house, I was losing my reason to be in the United States. When one of my teachers recommended reading The Fountainhead, I was moved beyond reason. Eventually, this literary work inspired me how to stand up against hardship, and how to persevere in achieving one’s goal with persistently diligent efforts and insurmountable courage to attain what one really desires.

In the novel, Howard Roark is the ideal embodiment of Ayn Rand’s depiction of a “perfect man”. Throughout the novel, the struggles and challenges encountered by Roark to keep what he truly loves was commendable and noteworthy. His sublime love for architecture was manifested and exemplified through his philosophies and ideals. He fought against society’s sway and corruption without sternest strength without losing hope. Eventually, he showed supremacy over the individual as he stood up on the skyscraper, which he magnificently created.

In the end, the narrator avers: “Then there was only ocean and the sky and the figure of Howard Roark” – an ultimate testimony that his ideals and philosophies prevailed. It is worthy to note that in contrast with Roark, Peter Keating was portrayed as dependent and opportunistic figure. Honestly, I feel that my personality is more analogous to Peter Keating, in terms of being more of a passive observer, than an active promoter of change. However, through the encouragement provided by Roark’s courage, in conjunction with Rand’s openly criticizing Keating’s behaviors as a lying, flattering, and a person who is only seeking for comfortable ways, I became committed to emulate Roark in his remarkable characteristics and traits.

I was undeniably touched by the line that reads: “Don’t you know what you want? How can you stand it, not to know?” I felt as if this line rebukes my past: powerless and pessimistic of one’s personal and professional goals. I was convinced that Rand boldly exposed my weakness, which I was apprehensive to accept. The novel helped me confirm my dreams and ideals to become not only an architect, but a bold, daring and audacious professional who would contribute to the future of architecture in an ever changing world.