Montag Likeable? Why did no one memorize a novel?

Well at least Montag made it out before the city was destroyed. But I, for one, do not believe Montag has the whole book of Ecclesiastes memorzied. My problem with Montag is that he seems a little dumb or out of it or something. He's not very good at reading people and he doesn't seem to be very good at putting thoughts together. But maybe that's kind of the point. He was a product of his society/government and was accustomed to not thinking, not observing, not understanding or trying to understand anything around him. I think Bradbury does a good job of not making Montag too much of a hero-genius, but on the other hand it makes him not as likeable.

The other thing I like about Montag not really seeming to get stuff, is that Bradbury's message is that books aren't just for professors. They are for everyone to the degree people can draw from it what they can. The important thing isn't their level of intelligence or understanding, the important thing is to try and learn and understand new things. That is what gives books their power and benefit.

I was a little disappointed that Bradbury only had the book people know nonfiction stuff. Good novels are some of the most important writing - it helps you understand and think about people/society.

I like that Montag finally remembers where he met Mildred. I think it shows he is starting to piece things together and connect his new thoughts with his former stale life. Or maybe it just shows he is now able to think period. Plus I just like Chicago.

And I like the message of Granger - all they are is a bunch of people living out on the country, who have memorized some books. They know they are not a threat to the government and the government knows that too. All they can do is wait for people to put away their radios and tvs and to want to engage in life again. That desire of the people is what will be a danger to the government. And when the people have that desire, the book people will be ready.