Reading 1001 discussion

In what ways might the final words of the novel, "For Reason must prevail," be interpreted? What do you think Zamiatin's intention is? How do you choose to interpret it?

It has a double meaning, and I am confident that Zamyatin chose this ambiguous sentence as a means to try to make his novel more acceptable to the Soviet authorities, while at the same time offering veiled criticism of the communist ideology. Reason must prevail in a world where rationalism and mathematical organisation are pushed to the extreme on the promise of eternal "happiness"; however, reason (maybe as common sense or the application of reason in a more humane way) must prevail against hyper-rationalism as it cannot lead to eternal happiness. That would be a direct warning that communism (and its development) is doomed to fail.

I agree with Patrick. Also, perhaps, as a note of hope in a seemingly grim world, with a direct application to events in the Soviet Union?