The Human Element

I believe that all people can affect change, they just have to know how. The characters in the books we have read have each found a way to fight against an unjust society. Whether it was Montag's flight and memorization of Ecclesiastes, Proctor's prayers before the noose, or Huck and Tom's ridiculous attempt to free Jim, they each stood up for what they felt was right. People can affect change by moving. All movements, like the old cliche of a ripple on a pond, can affect everybody around them, no matter how small.

The changes affected by the characters varied in grandeur. Sometimes, they helped somebody gain their freedom. Sometimes, they left a simple legacy of honor and boldness. Their contributions were small and large, for now and for later, and the important thing is that they contributed.

Perhaps the books portray the influences one's actions can have as a little exaggerated, but while not all people can do as the characters did, a few people have definitely done things as significant as the characters' actions. The books are about what could be if people cared enough to try.