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The Fountainhead

The Fountainhead Summary

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Here you will find a The Fountainhead summary (Ayn Rand's book).
We begin with a summary of the entire book, and then you can read each individual chapter's summary by visiting the links on the "Chapters" section.

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Last Updated: Monday 1 Jan, 2024

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The Fountainhead Summary Overview

An avant-garde architect named Howard Roark finds himself expelled from his architecture school for his refusal to abide by antiquated traditions. He chooses to move to New York where he works with a discredited architect, Henry Cameron, who Roark highly admires. Meanwhile, Peter Keating, Roark's former schoolmate, also ends up in New York, working for a top architectural company run by the renowned Guy Francon. While Roark and Cameron's works are underappreciated, Keating's ability to charm and appease his superiors leads him to rapid success. However, Roark's uncompromising approach to design ultimately results in him working at a granite quarry in Connecticut. At the quarry, Roark feels an intense draw towards Dominique Francon, the beautiful and mercurial daughter of Guy Francon. Dominique shares a similar disgust for society's mediocre architecture and is searching for something more. After a disturbing encounter, Dominique comes to realize that she deeply admires Roark and his work. Despite this, she publicly attempts to sabotage his career while privately meeting with him. Ellsworth Toohey, an architectural critic with socialist views, perceives Roark as a threat and manipulates a businessman into suing Roark for his unconventional architectural style, resulting in Roark losing his business. Dominique marries Peter Keating as a form of self-inflicted punishment for her feelings towards Roark. Gail Wynand, a jaded publisher who capitalizes on public opinion, becomes infatuated with Dominique and offers Keating financial gain and prestige in exchange for his wife. Dominique, expecting Wynand to be worse than Keating, is surprised to find him principled. Wynand unknowingly becomes friends with Roark, not aware of the latter's past with Dominique. Roark, intrigued by the concept of economical housing, agrees to design a public housing project under the condition that his design remains unaltered. Upon discovering that his design has been compromised, Roark destroys the project and is arrested. Wynand initially supports Roark but later succumbs to public opinion. However, Roark's passionate defense about selfishness and individuality sways the courtroom, resulting in his acquittal. Roark marries Dominique and is commissioned by Wynand to design a skyscraper symbolizing the power of the individual.

part 1 chapter 1

In 1922, Howard Roark, an unyielding youngster, has been ousted from the Stanton Institute of Technology's architecture program. His modernist style contradicts the traditional teachings of his school, despite his proficiency in engineering and math. He spends his time sketching complex yet stark designs in his boardinghouse room. His landlady, Mrs. Keating, whose son Peter shares the same academic path, reminds him of his appointment with the college's Dean. During their meeting, the Dean confesses that Roark's contemporary style led to his expulsion, but hints at a possible re-admission when Roark matures. Rejecting the proposal, Roark offends the Dean who then asserts that Roark will never succeed as an architect. After the meeting, Roark reflects on his inability to comprehend men like the Dean.

part 1 chapter 2

During Stanton's graduation, Peter Keating contemplates his worth. Post graduation, Guy Francon, a notable architect who delivered the keynote speech, offers Keating a job at his company. Keating is torn between this job offer and a prestigious scholarship. Seeking advice, he consults Roark who advises Peter to make choices independently. Peter's mother cunningly persuades him to choose Francon's job offer. Roark concurs that this job would provide more hands-on building experience, leaving Keating thrilled about his future.

part 1 chapter 3

Keating lands a job at Francon & Heyer in New York, quickly mastering the art of office politics. He soon realizes a man named Claude Stengel, who serves as the main draftsman and architect, is the real brains of the operation. Keating and Francon develop a friendship. Meanwhile, Roark secures employment with Henry Cameron, an architect whose popularity has faded. Cameron, much like Roark, values his buildings over his clients. They toil away in their dilapidated office, engaging in minimal conversation.

part 1 chapter 4

As Keating ascends the ranks at Francon & Heyer over two years, he causes his best friend at the firm to be fired by making him redundant. Keating cherishes his time with a girl from New York, Catherine Halsey. She is ordinary yet her smile is enchanting and she harbors feelings for Keating. In a conversation, she reveals her uncle is eminent architecture critic, Ellsworth Toohey. This disclosure unsettles Keating, inciting a vision of a life that is crass and unclean. He requests Katie to not introduce him to Toohey. Cameron, drawing from his personal experiences, narrates the harsh future Roark will face due to his integrity. Cameron foresees that Roark will conceive an extraordinary architectural design which will get rejected. In a desperate attempt to get his project accepted, Roark will plead and beg, but to no avail as lesser architects will secure the projects. Ultimately, Roark will be left shattered and sobbing. When asked if he wants such a future, Roark says 'yes'.

part 1 chapter 5

Keating secures the chief designer position at Francon & Heyer after orchestrating Stengel's departure. He finds himself tasked with his first design project, a responsibility he feels wholly unprepared for. In desperation, he turns to Roark with his messy sketches. Roark, demonstrating his knack for design, transforms Keating's chaotic sketches into a cohesive and elegant design. Keating, filled with a mixture of shame and gratitude, passes off Roark's designs as his own work.

part 1 chapter 6

In 1925, Ellsworth M. Toohey's architecture history book, Sermons in Stone, becomes an instant hit. However, Henry Cameron's world collapses when he loses a significant project, leading to his retirement in New Jersey. His sister assists him while Roark, following Cameron's instruction, shuts down their office, destroying all the drawings. Simultaneously, Peter Keating's career at Francon & Heyer prospers, and he resides in a chic, albeit modest, Park Avenue apartment. His domineering mother moves in with him, against his desires, and advises him to form a bond with Francon's daughter. Francon, however, is uninterested. During a visit to Katie, Keating unexpectedly questions their relationship status. Misinterpreting this as a proposal, Katie confirms their engagement, which Keating requests to keep hidden.

part 1 chapter 7

Keating convinces Francon to employ Roark, who agrees out of financial necessity but insists on not doing any design work. Keating finds joy in commanding Roark, though is annoyed by his calm compliance. Behind closed doors, Keating still seeks Roark's design assistance. Roark is most content when he's checking construction sites and his knowledge about the process surprises the laborers. He strikes up a friendship with a hard-nosed electrician named Mike, who has respect for all forms of expertise.

part 1 chapter 8

Francon one day requests Roark to create a design that emulates the Dana building, one of Cameron's triumphs. He proposes a version imitating the Greek Classical style. However, Roark insists that an original design would better honor Cameron's legacy. Francon, unaccustomed to defiance from his staff, is offended and immediately dismisses Roark. Roark then starts looking for another opportunity, but the companies he approaches show no interest in hiring him.

part 1 chapter 9

Roark begins working for an architect, John Erik Snyte, where each designer contributes to a project from a unique historical perspective. Snyte merges their designs into the final blueprint and labels Roark as Mr. Modernistic. Meanwhile, New York's building-trades unions go on strike for enhanced wages. The most strident anti-union publications are owned by media tycoon Gail Wynand. Ellsworth Toohey, expected to speak at the strikers' rally, is known to back the workers in private, but has never publicly voiced this. He writes for one of Wynand's newspapers, the Banner, and supporting the strike could jeopardize his journalism career. As Keating's exclusive focus, Katie's diverted attention upsets him. At the rally, Keating nearly convinces Katie to leave when Toohey begins his captivating speech on unity and selflessness. Despite being mesmerized by Toohey's words, Keating persists in persuading Katie to leave as she is entirely captivated by her uncle's speech. The day after the rally, Wynand offers Toohey a significant raise, claiming it is not a bribe for his silence. The strike eventually ends. Keating later encounters Francon in a dreadful mood due to his daughter, Dominique's, harsh review of one of his buildings in her column in the Banner.

part 1 chapter 10

At a fancy New York gathering, Francon presents his daughter to Keating. They engage in playful banter, but she ultimately dismisses him. Austen Heller then engages Snyte's firm for a unique house project. Despite his inability to precisely outline his vision, no other firm had been able to match Heller's taste. Roark is thrilled about this project and bases his design on the granite cliff where the house will be built. Snyte presents Heller with a modified plan of Roark's design. Heller appreciates it but seeks a purer design. Roark boldly alters the final plan in front of everyone, revealing his original design. Snyte promptly fires Roark, but Heller is taken by Roark's audacity and awards him the project privately. Heller writes the first check to "Howard Roark, Architect."

part 1 chapter 11

Howard Roark commences his own architectural firm and quickly secures a contract with Austen Heller. He visits his mentor, Henry Cameron, who is elated upon seeing a photo of Roark's new workspace. Peter Keating, the first person to drop by Roark's office, outwardly expresses admiration for Roark's bravery, but secretly harbors resentment. Roark bumps into his old acquaintance, Mike, an electrician, at the Heller project site. Despite the small scale of the project, Mike insists on being a part of Roark's inaugural building. Roark and Heller frequently visit the construction site, resulting in a strong friendship between the duo. The completion of the Heller house, however, garners little attention.

part 1 chapter 12

Alvah Scarret, Banner's head editor, tasks Dominique Francon with researching the living standards in New York's slums. She spends two weeks living in the tenements and crafts a striking piece. Once back in her wealthy surroundings, she offends rich property owners by exposing the harsh realities of their slums. In addition, she astounds social workers with accounts of the slum dwellers' indolence and avarice. Alvah is puzzled by Dominique's lack of concern for decorum and her fiercely impartial attitude. Keating's attempt to reconnect with Dominique fails, but Francon orchestrates a meeting and they converse amiably. Keating, though intimidated by Dominique, finds himself falling for her and they see each other frequently. Late into the night, a scared Katie rushes to see Keating. She confesses her sudden fear of her uncle Toohey, who she lives with, and proposes they marry immediately. Keating consents, but his mother promptly dissuades him, arguing that marrying Dominique would solidify his position at Francon's firm. Keating reluctantly agrees to postpone his wedding and informs Katie the next day. Katie accepts his decision loyally. Yet, following their discussion, they both sense they've lost a significant opportunity that won't return.

part 1 chapter 13

Roark, admired for his design of Heller's house, is hired by a young businessman to create a gas station. Despite customers' requests for designs based on previous styles, Roark sticks to his principles of designing based on a building's context. Whitford Sanborn, a past client of Roark's mentor, Henry Cameron, commissions Roark to design a country home. Cameron had originally been Sanborn's choice, but he recommended Roark upon retirement. Sanborn likes Roark's initial sketches, but his wife doesn't. Sanborn tries to negotiate with Roark, who stubbornly refuses to alter his design. Roark completes the house as per his original design, but Mrs. Sanborn refuses to inhabit it.

part 1 chapter 14

Cosmo-Slotnick Pictures gears up to construct a massive skyscraper, launching a global competition for an architect. Francon suggests Keating join the race with a design representing their firm. Keating, aware his cluttered design won't win, turns to Roark for help. Roark spends an entire night refining Keating's design, despite struggling financially due to lack of work. Then, Cameron's sister informs Roark that Cameron is on his deathbed. Rushing to see Cameron in New Jersey, Cameron's parting words to Roark are to disregard his previous cautions and chase his dreams uncompromisingly. Keating requests Katie to delay their wedding until the Cosmo-Slotnick competition's results. Winning would secure him a partnership in the firm and a stable income. Meanwhile, Keating spends considerable time with Dominique and attempts to kiss her. Unmoved by his advances, she confesses her belief of being totally frigid. Though shocked and scared, Keating remembers Dominique is Francon’s offspring and proposes to her. This unexpected proposal takes Dominique by surprise, yet she vows to accept it if she ever feels the need to punish herself.

part 1 chapter 15

Keating is nervous about the Cosmo-Slotnick contest outcome. He worries that without a win, he might lose a potential partnership at Francon & Heyer due to Lucius Heyer's deteriorating health. He blackmails Heyer, who had previously inflated construction costs, to retire early. However, Heyer suddenly dies of a stroke during their conversation. This shocks Keating, who finds a hidden desire within himself for this outcome. Later, he learns that Heyer left him his whole estate and that he won the Cosmo-Slotnick contest. Even with overnight fame, Keating struggles with Dominique's disdain and the knowledge that Roark was the true architect of the winning design. Following Dominique's departure for summer, Keating visits Roark, who is impoverished and awaiting a potential project call from a bank. Keating offers him $500 to keep quiet about his involvement in the Cosmo-Slotnick project. Roark accepts only on the condition that Keating never again ties his name to such a lackluster building. Stung by Roark's words, Keating threatens to ruin him. A few days later, the bank offers Roark a project involving a simple Greek facade design. Despite his situation, Roark rejects the offer for compromising his principles. This decision forces him to close his office. Seeking employment, he asks Mike, who suggests a job at a Connecticut granite quarry.

part 2 chapter 1

Howard Roark engages in physically demanding yet fulfilling work at the Francon granite quarry. All alone at her father's estate nearby, Dominique often roams the surrounding countryside. On an especially scorching day, she decides to pay a visit to her dad's quarry, spotting Roark engaged in his drilling labor. Their eyes lock, his gaze strong and possessive. This triggers an instant resentment in her, stemming from an awareness of her potential feelings for him. Despite her inner resistance, Dominique finds herself drawn back to the quarry, captivated by Roark's unwavering stare. Following a few days, they encounter each other at the quarry again, sharing an intimate moment. Dominique yearns to learn if Roark is suffering and questions him about his laborious job. Roark shares his physical exhaustion, revealing his arms sometimes become immovable at night. When she inquires about his reason for working there, he responds that he is there because of the paycheck she provides him.

part 2 chapter 2

Dominique continuously battles the urge to see Roark. She starts to feel secure at home, yet wants to ensure her willpower is strong. She intentionally scratches her marble fireplace, requiring its repair, a task she assigns to Roark. His nonchalant acceptance sends her into shame and pleasure. Roark visits her home, cracks the marble, and offers to replace it. However, when the new stone arrives, Roark sends an aged laborer instead of coming himself. When queried about this at the quarry, Roark simply asks why it matters to her. Dominique later finds herself in Roark's arms. His forceful possession of her is akin to a “master taking shameful, contemptuous possession” of a slave. This degrading experience is paradoxically what she desired; a gentler approach would have left her unaffected. Roark exits without uttering a word. Following this, Roger Enright, an industrialist, engages Roark's services which take him to New York. Dominique learns of Roark's departure and feels a sense of relief. She convinces herself that this marks the end of her vulnerability to Roark and that their paths will not cross again.

part 2 chapter 3

Basking in his recent achievements, Peter Keating gets a package from Ellsworth Toohey. It contains a draft for Toohey's next column, which praises Keating and his creations, and an invitation for a meeting. Soon after, Keating finds out about an assassination attempt on Toohey by a sculptor named Stephen Mallory, which leaves him unharmed. Keating quickly visits Toohey and is surprised to find a frail, thin man rather than the robust figure he envisioned. Despite their differences, they bond well. Toohey invites Keating to be part of an informal architects' group he's assembling. He informs Keating that the group's aim is to exchange ideas and offers him the role of chairman.

part 2 chapter 4

Toohey calls Keating over for a cup of tea. Katie is also present, but she seems absent-minded and detached. Keating faces a barrage of questions from Toohey regarding Roark, despite the fact that Toohey has never written about Roark in his column. Additionally, Toohey has set up a project for Keating. Lois Cook, a stylish writer known for her intricate yet meaningless novels, desires to construct the most distasteful house in New York. Keating takes on the task.

part 2 chapter 5

Dominique heads back to New York. She's in her office at the Banner when Toohey comes in and sees a photo of the Enright House. She says that such an impressive structure shouldn't be allowed to ruin in the hands of people, especially not people like Toohey. Toohey's architect council, the Council of American Builders, convenes for the first time. There are only two renowned members among the total eighteen. They criticize the current status of architecture, but don't provide any constructive solutions. Dominique cuts in during Toohey's dramatic speech, making the council members uneasy. After the meeting, Keating attempts to kiss Dominique, but she rebuffs him. He wants to know who she's met recently, to which she mentions the workman in Connecticut.

part 2 chapter 6

Roark, using the funds from the Enright job, reestablishes his office. Upon learning that Dominique would be present, he consents to accompany Austen Heller to a social event. The hostess of the soirée attempts to converse with Roark upon his arrival, she considers him impertinent. Heller presents Roark to Dominique. Neither of them brings up their past meeting during their cordial dialogue, giving Dominique the impression that Roark is scrutinizing her. Throughout the night, Toohey devotes his attention to observing Roark.

part 2 chapter 7

Dominique criticizes the Enright House in her following column, yet Toohey believes she's actually indirectly commending Roark. Joel Sutton, a potential client of Roark, becomes troubled and questions Dominique about hiring Roark. She assures Sutton of Roark's ability to create an exquisite structure, but Sutton seeks safety. Consequently, Dominique suggests Keating. Later, Dominique seeks out Roark, expressing her strong desire yet hatred for him. She commits to ruin him in order to challenge his resilience. Roark, however, comprehends her motives and respects her.

part 2 chapter 8

Dominique secures four projects for Keating in the succeeding months. Toohey approaches her suggesting a joint effort against Roark, to which she consents. She and Roark continue their clandestines meetings, typically during the nighttime. Fascinated by Roark's strength and her own inability to resist it, Dominique spends the daylight plotting Roark's downfall. A furious Roger Enright brings Dominique to the ongoing Enright House project. The experience leaves her ecstatic, leading her to pen an article in which she suggests that the building should not be inhabited. This veiled compliment to Roark leaves Enright puzzled. Keating is equally perplexed by Dominique's behavior. While the public maintains that Dominique harbors feelings for Keating, she snubs him in private.

part 2 chapter 9

As a youngster, Toohey despised anyone who stood out, always attempting to suppress their uniqueness. He cleverly camouflaged his malice behind phrases of humbleness. People, to his amazement, fell for this and he swiftly amassed a following. Toohey was particularly adored by rich inheritors during his Harvard years. As he matured into an adult, he advocated self-sacrifice for the benefit of others. When he relocated to New York, he took up a role as a career adviser. Rarely did he advise learners to chase their dreams, instead suggesting they opt for less glamorous jobs. Toohey eventually ventured into publishing and earned the status of a public figure.

part 2 chapter 10

The Enright House opens in June 1929, bringing more work Roark's way. He enters into a deal with Anthony Cord to construct a fifty-story skyscraper in Manhattan, his inaugural office building. Kent Lansing seeks him out, wishing for a luxury hotel designed by Roark for his company. After relentless argument, Lansing convinces the company board to hire Roark for the Aquitania Hotel. Hopton Stoddard, a follower of Toohey, desires to establish a religious temple. Spotting an opportunity, Toohey suggests Roark for the job and instructs Stoddard on how to persuade him. Despite Stoddard's off-putting demeanor, his case for a temple dedicated to the human spirit, infused with Roark's own essence, impresses Roark. Questioning his understanding of people, Roark consents to design the temple.

part 2 chapter 11

Peter Keating is dissatisfied with the finished Cosmo-Slotnick building. Toohey advises him to relinquish his ego for greatness. Roark seeks out Stephen Mallory, the sculptor who had attempted to murder Toohey. Mallory is reduced to tears by Roark's appreciation of his work and the realization that undefying men like Roark do exist. The next day, Mallory views Roark's sketches for the Stoddard temple and agrees to create a statue symbolizing the human spirit. Roark recommends Dominique as the model. Over the ensuing months, Roark works with remarkable focus. He plans a horizontal temple, proportioned to human size. His intention is for it to create a connection between the sky and man and provide a source of strength for visitors.

part 2 chapter 12

May sees the dissolution of the corporation behind the Aquitania Hotel, freezing its construction. However, Kent Lansing vows to Roark to complete the project someday. In a surprising turn, Stoddard calls off the Stoddard Temple's unveiling. Following this, Toohey pens a harsh critique of the temple, leading Stoddard to sue Roark for contract breach and malpractice. The city's entire press backs Stoddard. Toohey tells Dominique that Roark's reputation will now be of a failed architect. At the ensuing trial, notable New York architects testify against Roark. Dominique, though seemingly supporting Stoddard, defends Roark in her testimony. She insists that the Stoddard Temple must be destroyed as the world is unworthy of it. Roark, meanwhile, defends himself by presenting ten photographs of the disputed temple.

part 2 chapter 13

Stoddard emerges victorious from the lawsuit. Despite Alvah Scarret's protests, Dominique insists on using her court statement for her upcoming write-up. Threatened with resignation, Dominique is asked to leave by Gail Wynand, the newspaper's proprietor. Concurrently, Katie seeks counsel from Toohey, discontented with her social work profession and growing resentment for those she services. Toohey advises her to abandon her self-importance, to which she timidly consents. Keating regrets opposing Roark in court and confesses his desire to elope with Katie the following day. After his departure, Katie confronts Toohey, declaring she is no longer intimidated by him.

part 2 chapter 14

Dominique proposes to Keating that same night, and he agrees. They promptly drive to Connecticut and tie the knot. Later, Dominique visits Roark, confessing her love for him after they're intimate. She also breaks the news of her marriage to Keating. Roark takes the news calmly, and she explains her self-inflicted punishment of marrying Keating, an act to express her refusal to be content in a world that fails to recognize Roark's worth. Roark, confessing his love for her, allows her to proceed with her plan, vowing to wait for her until she matures.

part 2 chapter 15

Dominique shifts to Keating's residence the following day. Despite his unfulfilling marriage, Keating relishes in others' jealousy. The Stoddard Temple gets a makeover by a team of architects and is transformed into a home for mentally challenged children. Post completion of the Cord skyscraper, Roark is left jobless. The Great Depression of 1929 has nearly decimated the construction industry, making it risky to employ a controversial architect like Roark. During a late-night visit to the remodeled temple, Roark encounters Toohey. Toohey provokes Roark, inquiring about his opinion of him. Roark simply responds with indifference, stating that he doesn't really think of Toohey.

part 3 chapter 1

Media tycoon Gail Wynand is mulling over a prospective property project, Stoneridge. Toohey advises Wynand to consider Keating as Stoneridge's architect and suggests he meet Dominique Keating before making a decision. He also hints at a persuade gift for Wynand. That night, Wynand revisits a personal history moment to convince himself to keep on living. Wynand's roots lie in the hooligan-ridden area of Hell’s Kitchen, Manhattan. Spurning local schools, he started working young at a community newspaper, the Gazette. When the Gazette wrongly accused an innocent, Wynand turned to a respected journalist for assistance, only to be denied, resulting in his disdain for honorable men. Later on, Wynand wrested control of a neighborhood newspaper from a political mob, rebranding it as the Banner. The Banner's first major appeal solicited funds for a gifted young scientist and a pregnant woman, the latter getting more donations, showing Wynand what the public wanted in news. By the age of thirty-five, Wynand had a string of newspapers throughout the country. Wynand privately owns an art collection filled with classics. Post his encounter with Toohey, he discovers a large package at his doorstep. Inside the package is Mallory’s statue of Dominique. On seeing it, Wynand contacts Toohey, agreeing to meet Dominique.

part 3 chapter 2

During a nighttime conversation, Keating comments to Dominique that she's changed and questions the whereabouts of her authentic self. In response, Dominique questions Keating about his own soul, noting that he doesn't have personal perspectives. As Keating is on the verge of conceding, an interruption comes in the form of a phone call from Toohey. Toohey informs Keating that Wynand wants to have a discussion with Dominique about Stoneridge.

part 3 chapter 3

Dominique and Wynand quickly form a bond when they first meet. Dominique, striking as her statue, intrigues Wynand. She proposes a deal to Wynand to sleep with him if he awards the Stoneridge contract to Keating. Wynand perceives that Dominique's offer is motivated by her disgust at the idea of sleeping with him, which astonishes her. Wynand later encounters Keating and Dominique at a fancy dining place. He proposes to Keating to exchange Dominique for the Stoneridge contract. After a week, Wynand shows Dominique his collection of art.

part 3 chapter 4

Wynand and Dominique embark on an extended voyage aboard Wynand's yacht, the I Do. The yacht's name is a subtle defiance against the naysayers of Wynand's youth who told him he couldn't control things. The journey is tranquil and luxurious. Wynand professes his love for Dominique and proposes, taking Dominique by surprise. This proposal compels Dominique to reconsider her preconceived notions about Wynand. Thoughts of the Stoddard Temple and the Banner's smear campaign against Roark lead Dominique to accept Wynand's proposal.

part 3 chapter 5

Wynand and Dominique get back to New York, where Wynand proposes a deal to Keating. He offers him a quarter-million dollars and the Stoneridge contract if he gives him Dominique. Keating hesitates, but finally agrees. However, he is filled with sorrow afterwards, realizing his love for Dominique. Toohey doesn't approve of a relationship between Dominique and Wynand, as they could pose a threat to him. Meanwhile, Dominique pays a visit to Roark, who is currently employed at a construction site in Clayton, Ohio. She shares her future plans with him during his late work hours. While Roark recollects Henry Cameron's disdain for Wynand, he doesn't oppose Dominique's plan. Despite the pain caused by the news, Roark and Dominique have a comfortable conversation. This encounter, however, causes Dominique great distress.

part 3 chapter 6

Ike, part of Toohey's Council of American Writers, shares his terrible play at a casual gathering. His peers, like Toohey's architects, praise each other's unimpressive skills. With Toohey's influence, they have become prominent figures in the literary world. Toohey lauds modern architecture in his column, appreciating the growing number of designers in Europe creating replicas of Henry Cameron's works. According to Toohey, modern architecture has developed into an organized, unified style. This trend negates Keating's work, as his designs are a mix of various styles. With Francon's retirement, a lackadaisical designer, Neil Dumont, becomes Keating's partner, causing the firm's decline.

part 3 chapter 7

Dominique heads back to New York, and Wynand yearns for a small, discreet wedding. Contrarily, Dominique desires a grand, ostentatious ceremony, as flashy and tasteless as can be. Their wedding is eventually held at a ritzy hotel with much fanfare, and Dominique dons a lengthy black gown. Wynand's marriage to a divorced, licentious woman causes a wave of disapproval, leading to a deluge of letters attacking The Banner.

part 3 chapter 8

Dominique and Wynand stay in their penthouse for a fortnight, with Dominique acknowledging Wynand as a heroic figure despite embodying all she dishonors. Wynand consistently defends his newspaper, the Banner, against her queries. In spring, Wynand departs for a publisher's gathering and upon his return, Dominique takes him to a play lauded by the Banner and authored by a Toohey protégée. She accuses them both of being unfaithful; she's given up joy to avoid the world, while Wynand has traded his honor for power. Wynand concedes his disdain for the concept of perfection, stating there is no such thing as a completely virtuous man, having invested significant resources to establish this.

part 3 chapter 9

Wynand shares with Dominique his design to construct a splendid edifice in Hell’s Kitchen. Dominique cautions him about Toohey, who has gradually filled the Banner's roster with his own followers. She highlights Wynand's intent to dominate the newspaper, implying his desire to rule the world. Wynand, however, finds this amusing. There are periods when Wynand and Dominique hardly converse. Wynand's declaration of love to Dominique sparks thoughts of Roark in her mind. Dominique expresses regret to Wynand for being his wife yet not loving him. Wynand, indifferent, reassures her of his happiness. He confesses that he has never loved before and she provides his life with purpose.

part 4 chapter 1

In the mid-1930s, a disheartened youth gains renewed vigor upon encountering a resort crafted by Howard Roark while cycling in the wilderness. The narrative unfolds Roark's remarkable journey as the resort's architect. Not expecting a positive response, Roark presents his unique vision for the resort to a group of developers planning a moderate-income getaway in Monadnock Valley. Roark's conviction that a resort should offer solace and individuality stuns the developers into giving Roark the contract, almost too eagerly. Engrossed in his work, Roark barely notices their unusual enthusiasm. He assembles his reliable team, including Stephen Mallory, and they coexist harmoniously in the valley's makeshift accommodations. As the launching day draws near, the company oddly seems to discourage patronage, yet every house gets rented. The developers' hope to deceive investors by having the resort fail - assuming Roark was incompetent - comes to light. Mallory rages, but Roark calmly asserts that it's irrelevant since the resort has been constructed successfully. The following year, Wynand requests a meeting with Roark.

part 4 chapter 2

Wynand and Roark instantly bond, though unaware of Roark's previous affair with Wynand's wife, Dominique, who also has no knowledge of their meeting. Wynand hires Roark to design a personal residence for him, expressing his disdain for flashy architecture and his admiration for the joy reflected in Roark's designs. Roark is taken aback by Wynand's comprehension of his work, and agrees to build a seclusive home for Wynand and his wife. After Roark departs, Wynand delves into all Banner articles ever written about Roark.

part 4 chapter 3

Wynand and Roark spend hours exploring the future location of Wynand's residence, hashing out their shared experiences of overcoming adversity to find success. Roark harbors no resentment towards the Banner for its past criticisms of him. Following the completion of the initial plans, Roark meets with Wynand in his office. Wynand proposes that Roark become his private architect and create all forthcoming structures in whatever style Wynand prefers, threatening to ruin him if he declines. Roark promptly sketches a conventional house, asking Wynand if this is his preference. Wynand is taken aback by the drawing, and Roark instructs him to refrain from offering directions or recommendations. Wynand chuckles, seeing this as confirmation of Roark's unwavering integrity.

part 4 chapter 4

Wynand presents Roark's sketches to Dominique discreetly, keeping the artist's identity a secret. Instantly, Dominique discerns the drawings as a homage to Roark’s affection towards her. Upon Roark's appearance at their residence, he and Dominique behave as though no past encounters had occurred. Observing the camaraderie between Wynand and Roark, Dominique discerns that Roark's unspoiled nature has indeed saved Wynand. Subsequently, Wynand summons Toohey to his office, commanding him to refrain from writing about Roark in his column ever again, to which Toohey consents.

part 4 chapter 5

Wynand starts experiencing a sense of repulsion at his job. This prompts him to call Roark each time, seeking his presence. In parallel, Dominique is in agony, aware that Roark is within her grasp yet unattainable. She realizes that Roark is continuously assessing her. She repeatedly assures herself that she is willing to go to any lengths for him.

part 4 chapter 6

Ellsworth Toohey goes to a feast planned by a peevish inheritor possessing no personal skills. All attendees mirror Toohey’s thoughts in their talk. They despise Wynand and insist that selflessness is the sole virtue. Following the social gathering, Toohey strolls back to his place, lost in a wave of elation.

part 4 chapter 7

When Francon steps down, Keating is viewed as too antiquated, which results in him becoming despondent and bitter. Feeling adrift at the age of thirty-nine, he starts painting in a cabin during his weekends for solace, not joy. Keating's final shot at success depends on winning a contract for a major housing development, Cortlandt Homes. He seeks Toohey's endorsement for the project but gets a chilly reception. Keating questions why Toohey has forsaken him for a new favourite, Gus Webb. Toohey reveals that he only supported Keating to suppress genuinely talented individuals. He informs Keating that the Cortlandt Homes project is an architectural puzzle since it needs to be economical and easy to upkeep. If Keating can conquer this challenge, Toohey will back him. Realising the design complexity is beyond his abilities, Keating calls Roark.

part 4 chapter 8

Keating converses genuinely with Roark after a long gap, discussing the Cortlandt project. Roark invites Keating to his office, promising a decision the following day. Roark agrees to contribute to the project, not for monetary gain or sympathy but for the challenge it presents. He consents to Keating receiving acknowledgement for the blueprints on the condition that no changes are made. Keating commits to defending Roark's designs, aware of the looming difficulties. Keating understands that while he gets the recognition and financial benefits, Roark will experience the sheer pleasure of creating an exemplary building. This realization by Keating gratifies Roark. Keating unveils his paintings that he had kept hidden, to which Roark compassionately says it's too late. After Keating's exit, Roark is overcome with a nauseating sense of pity and revulsion at society's perception of pity as virtuous.

part 4 chapter 9

Roark designs Cortlandt Homes to be economical, attractive, and practical. Toohey, upon seeing the drawings, lauds Keating as gifted, despite knowing Keating didn't make them. Wynand utilizes all divisions of the Banner to endorse Roark but this backfires as the city's intellectuals despise the paper and anything related to it, including Roark. Undeterred, Wynand persists on his mission, using his clout to secure projects for Roark. One occasion sees Wynand bringing Roark to his previous Hell’s Kitchen neighborhood, intending to erect a magnificent skyscraper there and wanting Roark to envision its creation along with him.

part 4 chapter 10

Keating encounters Katie Halsey by chance during a walk. Guilt washes over him, but Katie appears upbeat. As they catch up over lunch, Keating notes a stark shift in Katie's personality - her vivacity is gone, replaced by a fixation on selflessness and kindness. She confesses that his marriage to Dominique caused her pain, but she now accepts that resisting destiny is pointless. Keating, in turn, admits his deepest regret is his marriage to Dominique, not because he didn't love her, but because he had wanted to marry Katie instead. He questions why people perceive fulfilling personal desires as easy when in reality, it's extremely challenging. His words incite criticism from Katie, who accuses him of selfishness before departing.

part 4 chapter 11

As the Cortlandt project nears completion, Roark decides to embark on a lengthy sea cruise with Wynand. During their journey, they engage in profound discussions about the real meaning of selflessness. According to Roark, a selfless person is a "second-hander", deriving their life's meaning from others. He identifies the main adversary of such individuals as an autonomous spirit.

part 4 chapter 12

Upon his return to New York, Roark discovers unauthorized changes to his Cortlandt project. The foundational structure remains intact, but Toohey's associates have added superficial embellishments. Keating tried to maintain the project's original design, but was overrun by the intruders. Roark enlists Dominique's help, instructing her to stage a car breakdown in front of Cortlandt Homes. She is to send the watchman away on a false errand, ensuring her own safety from what is to come. Heeding Roark's commands, Dominique feigns a gasoline shortage and sends the night watchman for help. As he departs, the Cortlandt building spectacularly erupts in flames. Returning to her damaged car, Dominique uses a shard of glass to cut herself, creating the illusion that she remained in the vehicle during the explosion. By the time authorities arrive, Dominique is unconscious and barely clinging to life.

part 4 chapter 13

Dominique awakens in Wynand's plush apartment, where he reprimands her, despite his approval of the building's destruction. Wynand is oblivious to her relationship with Roark, which saddens Dominique as she anticipates the inevitable heartbreak. Roark faces arrest for his role in the demolition. Wynand bails him out and Roark drops by to speak to Dominique. Roark outlines his wishes - if convicted, Dominique should remain with Wynand, but if acquitted, she should leave Wynand for him. Roark faces public condemnation, portrayed as an adversary to the underprivileged. Rumors circulate that Roark's actions were fuelled by bitterness, as Keating and Webb had allegedly stolen his concepts. Wynand uses his media platforms to defend Roark, although this tactic backfires, causing more harm than good. It dawns on Wynand the extent to which Toohey has infiltrated and manipulated his company.

part 4 chapter 14

Toohey visits Keating, who is avoiding the press. He pressures Keating to confess that Roark was the real architect of the Cortlandt houses, believing this revelation could damage Roark's reputation. Keating, fully reliant on Toohey, struggles to acknowledge Toohey's true sinister intentions. However, Toohey clarifies his malicious tactics: manipulating men into embracing selflessness to gain control over them. This revelation shatters Keating. In desperation, he pleads with Toohey not to abandon him. Toohey's response is a dismissive laugh.

part 4 chapter 15

Toohey publishes an article attacking Roark, leading to his and the approving editors' dismissal by Wynand. Toohey assures Wynand that he'll own the paper upon his return. The Union of Wynand Employees, comprised mainly of Toohey loyalists, strike to demand Toohey and the dismissed editors' return and a total change in the paper’s stance towards Roark. Wynand operates the newspaper with a minimal workforce. The strikers outside escalate to violence, causing injuries to some of the remaining staff. Wynand is diligent in his work, and Dominique moves into the Banner building to support him. Yet, the paper's circulation continues to dwindle, with remaining copies left unsold.

part 4 chapter 16

The Banner's investment board organizes a crucial meeting due to a significant drop in advertisers, pushing the newspaper to the brink of disaster. Wynand, aware that the Banner's survival hinges on his willingness to compromise, wanders around New York in deep distress. Eventually, he succumbs to the pressure, feeling as though he's metaphorically shooting himself in the head. The following day, Wynand's signature adorns a formal apology in the Banner, retracting their support for Roark.

part 4 chapter 17

The city buzzes with the headline news. Roark pens a forgiving letter to Wynand, who sends it back without reading. Dominique visits Roark at his Monadnock Valley residence. Although Roark initially tries to push her away out of consideration for Wynand, he sees that Wynand will not regain his missing values. As Dominique attains emotional fulfillment, she and Roark reignite their relationship. The following day, Dominique causes a stir when she reports a missing ring to the police. On their arrival, she welcomes them wearing Roark's sleepwear, revealing they are an item. She tells Roark she's using the scandal to solidify their bond. Dominique and Roark's story circulates all over New York. Alvah Scarret tells Wynand he should divorce Dominique, and he agrees. When he gets home, he finds Dominique who confesses that Roark is her true love. Dominique's father, Guy Francon, calls later; she prepares for his fury, but he shows relief instead, believing Roark is right for her. Scarret suggests they utilize the scandal to increase the dwindling paper sales, and Wynand consents. The Banner publishes an article claiming Dominique coerced Wynand to stand up for her lover. An outpour of sympathy letters follows, and the public forgives Wynand.

part 4 chapter 18

Roark defends himself in court, purposely selecting a jury unlikely to favor him. Keating testifies, mechanically confirming Roark was the architect behind Cortlandt and expressing how he grew fearful of Roark as the project evolved. Roark opts against summoning any witnesses. He delivers an impassioned speech, painting creators as the titans whose brilliance sustains humanity. He argues that it's intrinsic to human nature to pursue truth and innovation, not to be of service to others. Roark decries those who parasite off the inventors' spirit, calling them “second-handers”. He cautions about the damaging influence of altruism even within the United States, a nation founded by such bright minds. Roark acknowledges he built Cortlandt for people but destroyed it to prevent its profanation. The jury quickly returns with a verdict of not guilty. Roark's gaze meets Wynand's, who departs in silence.

part 4 chapter 19

Wealthy businessman Roger Enright buys the Cortlandt site from the government, commissioning Roark for its redevelopment. The revamped housing complex will offer affordable rents for all, while still generating profit for Enright. The city's labour board instructs Wynand to take Toohey back into his employ. Despite Toohey's attempts to disregard Wynand, the latter interrupts the news printing to announce the end of the Banner, leaving Toohey jobless. Toohey finds a new role at a high-end New York newspaper and immediately begins probing the publisher's views. After some months, Roark is summoned to Wynand's office. Wynand proposes a new project to Roark, the construction of the Wynand Building, a symbol of defiance against the world. Roark is tasked with creating a design that reflects his unique spirit.

part 4 chapter 20

A year and a half later, Dominique makes her way to the Wynand Building, still under construction. She steps into an external elevator, which carries her beyond the completed brickwork and into the bare steel structure of the edifice. High atop the skyscraper, where nothing else can be seen except the sky and sea, stands her spouse, Howard Roark.

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People who recommended The Fountainhead

Emma Watson

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"I know, it's a cult. I'm not going to take it too far, but I did enjoy it." - Emma Watson

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Jesse Williams

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"The protagonist’s audacious self-confidence and refusal to compromise his artistic vision—which was to say, himself—was a fascinating thing to survey." - Jesse Williams

Kevin Kelly

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"By the end of the book, I decided to drop out of school. I never returned. It was the best decision of my life." - Kevin Kelly

Larry Ellison

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"As a kid, I wanted to be an architect. That's before I read [this book]. I mean it is hard to find a profession that pays worse than architecture." - Larry Ellison

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"I'll pick it up when I need motivation." - Mark Cuban

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