In Ray Bradbury's Fahrenheit 451, fire plays a huge symbolic role in the story and on the lives of the characters within. Fire takes on multiple different symbolic meanings as the story progresses. In the beginning, fire is looked at as destructive, with Montag and the Firemen enjoying using its destructive properties. It is not until the story is nearing its end that Montag realizes that fire has the potential to be protective, and provide warmth, not just destruction. Montag is also told by Granger that fire is like a phoenix, being representative of both destruction and renewal. Fire's symbolism changes drastically throughout the story depending on the situation and the perspective of the people involved.
Initially in the story, fire is portrayed as destructive and violent, only being used to cleanse and destroy. The main protagonist, Guy Montag, even begins the book by saying, "It was a pleasure to burn." (Bradbury 1). Montag's entire career revolved around the use of fire's destructive properties, and he enjoyed doing it. While Montag was still a Fireman, he understood that fire's …show more content…
Whilst escaping the hound trying to kill Montag, he realizes that the sun was burning, providing warmth for the entire world, thinking "The sun burnt every day. It burnt Time." (Bradbury 141). He also, whilst walking in the dark of night, notices a fire off in the distance. The fire acted as a beacon to Montag, showing him the difference between the dark, cold night, and the light and warmth that fire brings. Montag was drawn to fire, like he was while he was still a Fireman, but for safety instead of destruction. Montag notices that fire's symbolism changed, stating that he, "Hadn't know fire could look this way," and that "Even its smell was different." (Bradbury 146). Montag will later find out due to his new companion Granger, that fire can represent even