What is the author’s purpose in writing the novel?

"Fahrenheit 451" was at the time a futuristic novel. Bradbury saw huge advances in technology, and through this novel, he looked at his own fears of what the future might hold. Note, as a man, Bradbury never drove a car... he never owned a computer, and he was in his sixties before indulging in domestic airline flight. In answer to this question, his purpose is best relayed through his own words, “I wasn’t trying to predict the future,” he says. “I was trying to prevent it.”

If you look at our world today, you can see that Mr. Bradbury wasn't too far off the mark. Technology permeates every aspect of our environment. Gaming, cell phones, and computers have become an integral part of our lives. Social media has taken the place of real communication; family dinners have become an exercise of juggling the cell phone and the fork; families often don't talk.... texting prevails.

Television is an entity in itself. Reality television has replaced "real family." People envision the Kardashians or Snookie as their friends or family, often pushing their own families and problems aside to immerse themselves in the lives of people who get paid to share what might or might not be real.

The reading of "books" declines regularly. How many of your friends read for enjoyment? How many read to learn.... just because they want to? How many books have been banned or rewritten..... very important questions.... very real problems.

Other than Bradbury's own statement, I don't believe there is a better explanation for his "purpose." But you have to admit..... his ability to look forward and envision the effects of technology on the world were dead on.