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Captain Beatty's quote from the play about "finding nothing" in literature

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27 January 2012, 02:54 PM
Anders Bruce
Captain Beatty's quote from the play about "finding nothing" in literature
Hello,

A long time ago, I read Bradbury's preface/introduction to one of the editions of Fahrenheit 451. In this introduction, Bradbury quoted from the stage adaptation of the book, which features a conversation between Montag and Beatty that helps to explain Beatty's motivations as a book-burner.

Beatty says something about turning to literature during his darkest hour and finding books to be barren of solace or consolation. In an essay I am writing, I would like to quote what Beatty says.

Does anyone have the edition to the book with Bradbury's introduction, or perhaps a copy of the stage adaptation's script? I would appreciate if someone could type up what Beatty says about "finding nothing"--all I need is that one line.

Thanks very much in advance!
--Anders
27 January 2012, 03:09 PM
fjp451
A.B., this may help precisely!
I believe you are looking for the "Afterword" from 1973.

http://www.american-buddha.com/fahren-ray.4.htm
About 3/4 of the way through, see: "The pages were empty!"

The Coda which is found after this passage is also always a treat to read, in this wonderfully PC world of ours!

I hope this helps.
27 January 2012, 05:05 PM
Anders Bruce
Yes, that's exactly it!

How exciting to read it again. The best of Bradbury always gives me a physical thrill, a bodily sensation like speeding down the highway. (I'm as easy to please as Montag's wife, in that regard!)
27 January 2012, 07:46 PM
fjp451
I am glad to be able to help connect the "RB dots!"
f