There are as many valid thoughts on Ray's legacy as grains of sand on a beach, however, I think this one stands out:

Everytime someone starts banning books somewhere, the subject of Fahrenheit 451 always comes up. Because of the powerful statements made in the novel, and its impact on society, he single-handedly helps preserve freedom of speech.

Mr. Blevins,
Enjoying your posts. Your tag line reminds me of the state motto of Kansas:
Ad astra per aspera!

The state motto of Kansas is 'A rough road leads to the stars?"

That's a surprise...

Actually, it's usually translated as "To the stars by hard ways" i.e. effort.