What early evidence is presented that the narrator is going to turn out to be a non- conformist - a maker, by his socity's standards?

In Chapter One, Equality immediately illustrates his inablility to conform to society's standards. He's curious, he questions authority, has a desire for knowledge, and because of this wishes for nothing more than to be assigned to the House of Scholars. Unfortunately, it is this same individuality of thought that leads the Council of Vocations to assign him as a street sweeper. His innate quest for knowledge and inability to conform are the very reason he is forbidden choice. His thoughts and aspirations require punishment; his natural talents must be squelched.