Anthem Loyalty Quotes

How we cite our quotes: Citations follow this format: (Chapter.Paragraph)

Quote #1

International 4-8818 4-8818 and we are friends. This is an evil thing to say, for it is a transgression, the great Transgression of Preference, to love any among men better than the others, since we must love all men and all men are our friends. (1.37)

Equality 7-2521's society apparently doesn't allow friendship. Why? Because it causes individuals to value certain people (their friends) more than others. According to the mandates of society, this is wrong. Everybody is equal, which means that every person has to feel equal devotion and loyalty to everyone else. Otherwise, the Transgression of Preference is committed.

Quote #2

"The will of the Council is above all things, for it is the will of our brothers, which is holy. But if you wish it so, we shall obey you. Rather shall we be evil with you than good with all our brothers. May the Council have mercy upon both our hearts!" (1.63)

International 4-8818 confesses his feelings for Equality 7-2521. They've never talked about their friendship before now, but now we see just how strong it is. International 4-8818 is willing to betray his own society rather than betray his friend.

Quote #3

We do not wonder at this new sin of ours. It is our second Transgression of Preference, for we do not think of all our brothers, as we must, but only of one, and their name is Liberty 5-3000. (2.11)

Equality 7-2521 has committed another Transgression of Preference. This time, he's fallen in love. Now, not only does he prefer one person to others, he can only think of one person: Liberty 5-3000.