As I continue to read Fahrenheit 451, by Ray Bradbury, the main character Montag has decided to take action against the other firemen. This is because he realized that maybe books are important to society, and shouldn't be burned. Currently, he has made a plan with an old man to burn the houses of firemen. The book describes this old man as someone who has always wanted to keep books around, but was too afraid to take any action to preserving them. This makes me think about how many people will have strong views on something, but never take action.
In the book, the old man Faber had created a device he was able to pay for playing the stock markets after his university closed. The device allowed him to implant one piece in one ear and the other, anywhere he chose. That way, he could "hear and analyze the firemen's world, find its weaknesses, without danger." According to Faber, it was just, "Proof of (his) terrible cowardice." Although he made this device long ago, he never put it to much use in trying to rebel against the burning of all books. And now, though he is old and Montag is willing to help destroy the burning system, he is still afraid. This angers me because he hasn't much to lose, but only something the world should hear and can probably gain from. I personally think that if you believe in something, you should put it to action, or else you are no better than those who are against it. This reminds me of people who are insanely mad at the outcome of elections, but didn't even vote. I want to ask, Why sit wondering "what if," when you could be rejoicing over a victory for your cause? I believe the answer to this is because many are afraid of the views of society. They may not want to be known as the crazy person. However, I just want to get it out there that many people thought people like Albert Einstein were crazy, but they went on to changing the world in a huge way. In conclusion, I want this post to be a call to action for those who have strong beliefs. I think we should all stand up for what we believe in.
Another great post! Do you think that this is truly possible in real life? And what would happen?
ReplyDeleteThanks Steven! And I couldn't imagine this ever happening because literature is such a big part in our lives. However, if it were to happen, our society would flounder. Part of the reason for books is to teach us lessons and show us what not to do ever again. Without them, we'd have to start all over again.
DeleteI agree Holly! Great post! I think that everyone should always put their beliefs and ideas into action, however I do also understand the other side, where people are afraid to stand up for their beliefs. I wonder how the world would change if everyone actually did what they believed was right, rather than just talking about it....
ReplyDeleteThanks, Ali! You bring up a good point about what would happen. Though I realize not all ideas are good, I think that many can be very beneficial.
DeleteReally good post Holly! I agree that people should stand up for their beliefs but also see why people shouldn't that much. Some people are afraid because their are other people out their who really care what other people think. If one person believes in something that they think is bad that person starts to think about hurting them. Anyway, great post! :)
ReplyDeleteThanks! And yeah, other people may feel strongly about the opposing side, but I think that if it could lead to a better society, it can be worth it. Take equal rights for colored people as an example.
DeleteThis was a really good post! I totally agree with you, and I really liked how you said that if you don't take action towards what you believe in than you are no better than those who are against it. That is so true. I feel like people in today's society are not only afraid of judgement but also just plain lazy. You could have such strong opinions about something, but that doesn't matter at all if you don't take action towards them. Really good post.
ReplyDeleteYup, I definitely agree with you. I guess laziness is also a big factor.
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