Montag's Catalyst

715 Words3 Pages
In Fahrenheit 451, Clarisse can be seen as the “muse” and motivating figure who inspires Montag’s quest and self-awakening. It is with Montag’s conversations with Clarisse that he “awakens” from his long, mindless slumber and false sense of happiness; moreover, becoming cognizant of the true reality of his life and the world around him. Clarisse is the catalyst who sparks Montag’s metamorphosis into a dynamic character and introduces the imperative theme of nature to the novel. She was curious, independent, and a free thinker; thus, being everything that the government and society was against. She was ostracized for asking questions and thought to be deranged for not being infatuated with jet car racing, parlor walls, and Fun Parks. Instead, she occupied her time with thinking, observing others, and acknowledging nature. Clarisse was the first person who truly looked at and talked to Montag. This made him realize the lack of genuine communication in his life, especially with his wife of ten years. She asked questions and saw the world in its simplest form. Clarisse was “pure”; unaffected by society’s brainwashing. She was the catalyst that brought forth Montag’s change. When Montag first met Clarisse, he was brought back to his childhood where there was a power failure and his mother lit a candle which opened an hour of rediscovery, illumination, and comfort. Clarisse is the light that Montag has not seen since he was a child. She is the light that gives him sight of the world around him and the lack of happiness in his life. “Her face, turned to him now, was fragile milk crystal with a soft and constant light in it. It was not the hysterical light of electricity but- what? But the strangely comfortable and rare and gently flattering light of the candle.” (7) It is with one question that Clarisse asks Montag that sparks his self awakening. “Are you

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