Anthem Strength and Skill Quotes

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

Quote #1

We are six feet tall, and this is a burden, for there are not many men who are six feet tall. Ever have the Teachers and the Leaders pointed to us and frowned and said: "There is evil in your bones, Equality 7-2521, for your body has grown beyond the bodies of your brothers." (1.5)

Equality 7-2521 is naturally tall, which sets him apart from most other people in his society. Learning this detail immediately lends an aura of strength and distinction to his character. It makes him stand out from others, and seem stronger than them, which is just why his Teachers don't like it.

Quote #2

It was not that the learning was too hard for us. It was that the learning was too easy. This is a great sin, to be born with a head which is too quick. (1.17)

Equality 7-2521 is not only taller than most of the other people around them, he's also smarter. A lot smarter. But this is even worse than being tall in his society, because it gives him an even more significant kind of superiority.

Quote #3

So we fought against this curse. We tried to forget our lessons, but we always remembered. (1.18)

It sounds like Equality 7-2521 feels guilty for being as intelligent as he is, and tries to will it away. However, he's incapable of changing who he is and becoming inferior just because he wants to. He's just stuck with his natural superiority.