Fahrenheit 451 - (C) Thoughts

Even though this book was given as a summer assignment, I thoroughly enjoyed reading Bradbury's work. I normally do not prefer science fiction/futuristic type books, however, this was an exception. I did not get lost in the technological advances that some authors pre occupy themselves with in their writing. Instead, I was captivated by the story, and the overall message that knowledge is power.
The fact that Ray Bradbury wrote this book sometime in the 1950s shows how insecurities of the past interlock with insecurities and fears of the present and future. Bradbury's writing challenges his readers to look within themselves and evalute what they have done as people. Bradbury is always urging his readers to continue thinking, and to never take for granted their ability to think and question.
Bradbury did not put all his energy into making the readers believe in an immensely advanced future world. Although it was given that Montag's society was directed for the future, his writing would have withstood regardless of the time period. He could have made his characters from the 1400s or live under water and it would not have mattered because his message, his writing, and his characters were real and relatable.
This type of book stays with its audience because it is disturbing on so many levels. Though Fahrenheit 451 is fictional, it can also be modeled as what could be if the public and the society as a whole are not making themselves aware and taking responsibility for what is occuring in the world. Bradbury's writing is definitely a wake up call for those that continually stand by and take on the passive role opposed to be being the one that makes the change and the difference.