Censorship, and Bradbury’s belief that it should not exist, is also a main theme throughout the novel. It seems that this censorship came about in two ways in Bradbury’s world. One is that people were doing too many things that are too stimulating (e.g. watching TV, listening to loud music, etc.) to concentrate on books. It is important that during Bradbury’s life, condensed book were quite popular. The other is that “someone” wants to restrict the knowledge of those around them. The government wants to restrict the knowledge of the population. The rich want to restrict the knowledge of the poor. Books are dangerous because people will read them and perhaps think for themselves, deriving ideas different from those in power.

Pay close attention to the use of fire as a symbol and how it changes throughout the course of the story. At first, it is used negatively to destroy knowledge and books. In the end, however, it is used to burn Beatty and win freedom.

I think it’s an example of how government can try to control every aspect of society’s life. We have to work where they want us, watch what they want and even think how they want. Almost if the Nazis were in control of our lives. Fascinating book, glad you’re reading it!