May 27 2009
Contest Entry: Fahrenheit 451
Review by Sarah M.
Did you know the temperature for which book paper burns is 451? The phenomenon of Ray Bradbury’s Fahrenheit 451 hit the shelves in 1953, but has been notably acclaimed for the past 5 decades.
The story is told in first person through the character Guy Montag. The story is in the future, where Montag is a fireman who, instead of putting out building fires, starts fires on books. In the future world that Bradbury imagined, the society was pleasure- oriented and they thought that books provided knowledge, which then could produce stress, sadness, or sorrow. The phrase, “ignorance is bliss” was that world’s motto.
When Montag meets Clarisse, Montag realizes that there’s more to life than just electronics and pleasure. He understands the unusual quality of Clarisse’s wisdom beyond her age. Montag is influenced by Clarisse and he was inclined to re-think and question his life: his job, his wife and what the world has come to at this point. Montag critically thinks of what the meaning of his job is and, more importantly, “do I want to burn books?” Throughout the entire story, Clarisse’s spirit stays with him, and helps him reflect on the meaning of life.
Ray Bradbury’s style is an example of an intellectual, elevated writing style. He has been known to have personal input towards his works by filling his words with emotion and authorial comments. I think that his writing is in the style of science-fiction with a poetic edge. Although his books are considered science fiction, the futuristic factor doesn’t overwhelm the key component of the plot. His style is also based heavily off of his experiences as a child. He expresses reminiscence of his innocent childhood, while he approaches the future hesitantly.
Ray Bradbury’s Fahrenheit 451 was written long before the idea of “talking walls,” or “seashell radios,” yet he was accurate on the effect that it has on society. Ray Bradbury is not just a role model in science fiction, he is a political paragon. His books are awashed with important messages, critical questions and incredibly relevant concerns of current events. “That is what my book is full of–solutions that are perfectly obvious, once you’ve read them. It’s not that I’m such a genius; it’s just that I pay attention (Ray Bradbury—interview with John D. Spalding).” But I beg to differ with Bradbury, he is a genius! Bradbury has the courage to speak his mind, against what is thought “right” in society, through literature, which is genius. Since Bradbury has power in the literary world, people listen to what he has to say. He uses his power to our advantage, not for his own personal gain. From his book, I have learned to speak my mind, no matter what people might think, because, in the end, I could make a significant difference in life.
Rachel’s Note: “Science fiction with a poetic edge” is a wonderful way to describe the unique writing of Ray Bradbury. I enjoyed this review, which shares the story and the impact of Bradbury’s classic Fahrenheit 451. As Sarah points out, the message of this book is incredibly relevant to the world today. Every time we choose to read, to explore new worlds both outside and inside of us, we challenge the idea that “ignorance is bliss.” Thanks for this great review, Sarah!
Second Note: This is one of two reviews which were ineligible for judging because no age was given for the reviewer. I’m glad to share it with my readers regardless. Enjoy!
