Reviews

Φαρενάιτ 451 by Ray Bradbury

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evb2000's review against another edition

adventurous challenging hopeful inspiring reflective medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? It's complicated
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.5

Not just a work of fiction but also one of social commentary, Fahrenheit 451 has stood the test of time and (in the opinion of someone who was not alive 50+ years ago when the book was written) is just as relevant now as when it was first written, if not more. While the setting was no doubt futuristic to the book's first readers, some elements are now more reality than fiction - namely the vast availability of and society's reliance upon social media echoing core themes of the parlour rooms and the constant influx of seemingly nonsense television they bring. However, both important elements like the insectoid Mechanical Hound and mundane ones like the robotic toaster device still place the setting firmly in the future, which paired with the modern relevance of the parlour rooms inspires the reader with hope for what can still be prevented, yet forces them to reflect on how accurate the book has been in some ways, and what could be if the current trends in society continue unchecked.

I found some of the prose difficult to follow at times, but not impossible. Whether intentional or not, I think this echoes the themes of ancient and great works of fiction throughout the book, and causes the reader to feel what Montag feels - struggling to follow parts of the story can effectively place the reader in the society the book is trying to portray, one of a lack of education and creativity.