Yevgeny Zamyatin‘s We has a bit of a tortured publishing history: written in 1921, it was first published–in English–in 1924. Further translations followed (Czech in 1927, French in 1929) but, due to the nature of its political critique, it was not until 1952 that it appeared in full in the original Russian.
There are claims (both at least partially disputed) that We partially inspired both 1984 and Brave New World. Regardless of accuracy, it clearly belongs in the same space as those two early dystopias: the world of We is one that takes a fascination with early 20th century logic and mathematics to predictable conclusions. Society is perfect in that it is ordered, perfect in that the evils of choice and non-conformity have been eliminated in a glorious, absolute perfection.
Zamyatin has some creative touches on this theme: his discussion of mathematics is nicely handled, names have been replaced with alphanumeric designations (our hero is D-503), the buildings are all made of glass to ensure “transparency,” and everyone–in ordered groups of four–take afternoon walks in perfect order through neatly segmented walkways. The plot is consistent with the genre: female sexuality is the gateway to rebellion against the state, and the spark that opens the protagonist’s mind to the possibility that there may indeed be alternatives to the dominant governing structure; and sexual jealousy provides the basis for a constant threat of betrayal. And, yeah, that is all a bit problematic, but also (unfortunately) pretty standard for both the era and genre.
There’s nothing too surprising here, but it is deftly handled, and the plot carries a “page-turner” dimension to it that was surprising: We is more engaging than I anticipated and, especially if you liked 1984 and Brave New World, well worth your time. It deserves a wider audience than it has received.
#WhatIWishICouldDo
The voice of the main character is simultaneously anguished and uncomplicated in a way that propels the novel forward. That is a hard balance to strike, and Zamyatin is at his best when he is deepest in D-503’s head.