The novel Fahrenheit 451 is filled with life lessons, analogies, metaphors, and insightful ideas. Throughout the novel, Ray Bradbury critiques modern society. He touches on sensitive issues such as personal relationships, the pursuit of happiness, censorship, war, politics, and religion. Towards the beginning of the novel, Montag is having a conversation with his charismatic neighbor, Clarisse. Clarisse says,
"No one has time anymore for anyone else. You're one of the few who put up...
The novel Fahrenheit 451 is filled with life lessons, analogies, metaphors, and insightful ideas. Throughout the novel, Ray Bradbury critiques modern society. He touches on sensitive issues such as personal relationships, the pursuit of happiness, censorship, war, politics, and religion. Towards the beginning of the novel, Montag is having a conversation with his charismatic neighbor, Clarisse. Clarisse says,
"No one has time anymore for anyone else. You're one of the few who put up with me. That's why I think it's so strange you're a fireman, it just doesn't seem right for you, somehow." (Bradbury 21)
Bradbury subtly uses Clarisse and Montag's verbal exchange to comment on modern society. In today's society people rarely give others their time. He teaches us that relationships are important to maintain, and giving someone your time is valued. Although Montag speaks briefly with Clarisse, their interaction has a profound effect on him. Bradbury also teaches us that no matter how brief, or insignificant a conversation may appear, there is always potential to positively affect someone's life.
Later on in the novel, Montag visits the retired English Professor, Faber. Faber notices that Montag is holding a copy of the Bible. Faber is intrigued and begins to turn the pages. Faber comments,
"It's as good as I remember. Lord, how they've changed it in our 'parlors' these days. Christ is one of the 'family' now. I often wonder if God recognizes His own son the way we've dressed him up, or is it dressed him down?" (Bradbury 77)
Bradbury uses this scene to comment on the commercialization of religion. In today's society, the media has distorted and promoted the figure of Christ anywhere and anyway possible. Holidays like Christmas and Easter are void of their original meanings, and movies depict Jesus as a handsome model who has magical abilities. Bradbury encourages readers to focus on the source of the religion instead of believing what the media and marketing corporations portray. The condensed, manipulated version of Christianity does not compare to the experience of studying the original text and connecting spiritually with God.
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