The need to make a mark on the world is an idea
that permeates throughout Fahrenheit 451 and
Divergent. Both Tris and Guy adapt to
the idea that they need to make a mark on the world, as well as a change in
society in order to make a difference.
“Everyone must leave something behind when he dies, my grandfather said.
A child or a book or a painting or a house or a wall built or a pair of shoes
made. Or a garden planted. Something your hand touched some way so your soul
has somewhere to go when you die, and when people look at that tree or that flower
you planted, you're there” (62). Montag conveys his need to leave a mark and
change something in a society that he believes is corrupt. By stating that
everyone “must leave something behind,” Montag further exemplifies his fear of
not being remembered. Similarly, in Divergent,
Tris is torn between choosing her family and her faction. “It’s my choice now, no matter what the test says. Abnegation.
Dauntless. Erudite. Divergent.” (26) Tris declaring that it
is “her choice” as to what faction she chooses further demonstrates that she
will not conform to society’s rules and expectations. Both Tris and Guy view a
lack of education as ignorance, leading to need to revolt and become ones own
person before society corrupts and destroys them. “If you hide your ignorance, no one will hit you and you'll never
learn” (56). Montag depicts that ignorance is necessary to improve oneself and
that it is the way to enlightenment. Tris and Guy both view the lack of
knowledge as an ability to learn and improve oneself before society becomes so
accustomed with following rules that as one it conforms into extensions of the
government.


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