Fahrenheit 451 opens up on a world where books and literature are banned, and technology
and consumerism reign supreme. It is a classic dystopian novel, with the government being in
total control over thought and learning, while the citizens suffer through a life of forced
happiness and fear. Our main character is a man named Guy Montag, a fireman who, instead of
putting out fires like we would think, actually ignites them, burning books whenever the siren at
his station sounds. However, with the encouragement of an odd new neighbor and a wise old
man, Montag begins to analyze the world around him and begins to wonder if a life without
learning is truly a life at all. In general, Fahrenheit 451 presents an interesting dive into a world
of censorship and government manipulation, showing the effects on our civilization whenever
we stop caring about knowledge. While it was originally written and published in the early
1950s, during the era of McCarthyism, it still holds up remarkably well today, especially with our
society becoming more and more fast-paced and technology driven. This book is an essential
read for everyone scrutinizing their position in society and wanting to find the motivation to read
again. Bradbury’s writing will implore readers to not only continue pursuing knowledge, but also to use
that knowledge to help the rest of their community.
