Farenheit 451, By Ray Bradbury

In this novel, the topic of influence takes many forms throughout the story which pushes the plot, characters and setting forward; it serves as a very crucial element. One of the most relevant examples is of the universe guiding and helping the protagonists. This concept is imperative to the plot of this story because of how it influences the actions that impact the flow of the novel. In the beginning of the novel, clear references to the universe’s interaction with the characters were made, and how it changed their fate: “As they let the wind take them downtown at eight o clock.” (Bradbury, 12) The characters are guided to face their fate as “The clear autumn river flung them headlong where they must go.” In the novel, natural elements heavily

This alludes to the belief that the universe is leading them to this path, from its omniscient POV of the story. The use of personification and the inclusion of the natural world as a gothic element successfully demonstrates the masterful craft of the author in creating the universe's impression on the reader. The universe is a vast and abstract concept that we cannot grasp yet, so by giving it human-like qualities makes it more relatable and easier to connect with, along with utilizing the natural world. Something that is embedded in us from birth, can provide familiarity to the reader in order to allow them to access a deeper understanding of the quotes. If the universe as a motif was not to be included by the author, the outcome of the story would revolve towards something more wicked. Through the mentions of the autumn people, they wouldn't be able to save themselves from the true evil of the carnival. How the universe acknowledged the characters existential questions by leading them to a path of acceptance, maturity, and development really illustrates the universes impact on this

Thank God for the ad! .As if to greet them, the wind flung up and down all the tent canvases in a great prehistoric thunder kite display of leprous wings!” (Bradbury, 15) This quote explores both puns and personification. Examining Bradbury’s expertise with literature gave this pun a significant impact on the story of the universe. This phrase of “thank god” is an expression of gratitude or relief towards a higher power. I believe the author displayed this quote with more depth. In a desperate time of need to save Will’s friend, there was no light to find him. Just like a miracle, the moon shined brightly, a concept of the natural world which correlated with the universe as a way to find Jim. It was as though the universe was watching them and guiding them. The protagonist saying “thank god” portrays their acknowledgement of god, further extending towards this prevailing topic of the influence of the universe in this narrative. We can observe how throughout the story the signs of the universe helping them were vague, which left the reader in question, introducing a minor gothic element of suspense on why these actions were made. But at the end of the story the reader can see how this blessing was created by God, even with God portraying an action of a “good bye” as a wish of luck as they left, it displays the development