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In Fahrenheit 451, Bradbury created a response to the cultural climate of his time that still resonates with us today. The themes of censorship, individual vs. society, and mindless entertainment vs. interpersonal relationships are still visible in today's society. The relevance of Fahrenheit 451 to modern society creates an opportunity for author to make reference to the Bradbury novel in other works. Most authors simple reference the work with a quote or reference to the situations of the novel.

A notable example of the homage to Ray Bradbury's insight and thematic genius is Michael Moore's Fahrenheit 9/11. Someone hearing only the title of the film would know that the movie not only relates to the tragedy of 9/11, but deals with censorship and keeping the masses ignorant. Whether or not you agree with Michael Moore's assessment of the subject of his documentary, you would understand the literary reference and implications of the title. This only can happen with literary works that have entered the social subconscious. The impact of Fahrenheit 451 is immeasurable; the work is part of our archetypal heritage.

In 1953 Ray Bradbury published the novella titled The Fireman, which became Fahrenheit 451. The story grew out of the censorship of the 1950s, Nazi book burnings, and repression of authors in the Soviet Union. Bradbury took these real situations and imagined the ultimate outcome of such censorship.

Bradbury set the novel in a society where censorship is the norm. The citizens are encouraged to learn by watching television. Books are banned and free thought is suppressed by the government. The main character is Guy Montag, a fireman which is defined as a government enforcer of censorship. It is Montag's job to burn books that are found so that the thoughts that they contain may be eliminated. Montag believes that his job is important and valuable. The story follows Montag's growth and evolution to a free thinking person as he becomes dissatisfied with his society.

Learn more about this author, Mary Paliescheskey.
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