Fahrenheit 451 Quote Analysis

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Chagrin in Contemporary Society “Living at risk is jumping off the cliff and building your wings on the way down.” This quote by Ray Bradbury, author of Fahrenheit 451, shows the centralized theme of defying societal norms and obstacles in order to accomplish the true happiness that one desires. Throughout the novel, Bradbury advances the ideas of creation and self-thought to a censored world and age. In the restrictive society found in Fahrenheit 451, it seems that everyone is satisfied with their lives, yet one recurring theme is discontent as seen in the increase of attempted suicides, Clarisse's questioning, and Montag and Mildred’s conversations. While it seems as if the people living in twenty-fourth century civilization are completely content with their way of life, an underlying sense of unhappiness can be seen in many of the characters’ situations. One character who molds herself into the conforming ways of society most is Mildred Montag. While Mildred seems at peace with her …show more content…
Clarisse begins a fairly normal conversation with Montag and begins to ask deeper, more personal questions as the discussion carries on. Finally, Clarisse asks Montag if he is truly content with his life. This question absolutely startles Montag as found in the quote, ”Darkness. He was not happy. He was not happy. He said the words to himself. He recognized this as the true state of affairs” (Bradbury 41). It as if Montag has just now realized his own ignorance and the facade of joy that the government has issued everyone through different sources of entertainment. For Montag, this mask of happiness is beginning to wear off and he realizes his dissatisfaction with how the government is telling him to live. He begins to questions the morals of society and contemplates stealing books and educating himself on the ways of