A novel set in a future America where books are outlawed and firemen are sent to burn them. Guy Montag is one such fireman, content with his work until a curious young neighbour and a growing unease make him question the empty, noisy, entertainment-filled life around him. As he begins to wonder what books contain that is worth hiding, he is drawn into conflict with his job, his marriage and the state. Bradbury's short, intense book is a warning about censorship, distraction and the loss of thoughtful reading, and it remains one of the best-loved dystopian novels.
Quotes
It was a pleasure to burn.
I'm seventeen and I'm crazy. My uncle says the two always go together. When people ask your age, he said, always say seventeen and insane. (7)
"Do you ever read any of the books you burn?" He laughed. "That's against the law!" "Oh. Of course." "It's fine work. Monday burn Millay, Wednesday Whitman, Friday Faulkner, burn 'em to ashes, then burn the ashes. That's our official slogan." (8)
Then she seemed to remember something and came back to look at him with wonder and curiosity. "Are you happy?" she said. (10 or 7)