We

We is a book by Yevgeny Zamyatin, first published in 1921. Often regarded as one of the earliest and most influential dystopian novels, it presents a striking vision of a future society governed by absolute order and conformity. Zamyatin, a Russian author and revolutionary thinker, explores the tension between individuality and collectivism, creating a story that continues to resonate with readers and inspire later works in the genre.

The narrative centers on D-503, the chief engineer of the spaceship Integral, who lives in a meticulously organized, glass-walled city where citizens’ lives are strictly monitored and regulated. Within this controlled environment, D-503 begins to question the rigid rules of his society after encountering I-330, a mysterious woman whose defiance of authority challenges everything he believes. Through their relationship, Zamyatin examines themes of freedom, rebellion, and the nature of human desire.

We is notable for its innovative narrative style, presented as a series of journal entries that offer intimate insight into D-503’s mind while simultaneously revealing the oppressive structure of the One State. The novel’s influence is profound, laying the groundwork for later classics such as Brave New World and 1984, and it remains a seminal text for readers interested in political fiction, speculative futures, and philosophical explorations of society. This edition was translated by Gregory Zilboorg.