In "A Sound of Thunder," Bradbury offers a touching and effective interpretation of time travel and it's dangers, including possible ripple effects. He also explores the relations between the past, present and future, and he does it through bold renditions and engrossing narrative.
Bradbury's abundant ability to create a vivid image radiates in his description of the Tyrannosaurus Rex, the prey that the hunters have come to kill. His descriptions are filled with metaphors. The T-Rex has "watchmaker's claws," pistons for legs, and thighs of steel. (6) It ran like a ballerina but loomed like an evil god. As successful as the metaphors are on their own, they are even more powerful when set side by side with one another as well as the more realistic descriptors of the dinosaur. Even though the reader has never seen a living Tyrannosaurus Rex, Bradbury's descriptions make it seem as if the dinosaur is standing directly in front of you.
The most powerful part of Bradbury's story is his articulation of the interconnectivity between the past, present, and future. Travis' tirade at the beginning of the story lays out the possible ripple effect that one ill-fated move can have on the future. Unfortunately, Eckels and the rest of the group realize this is indeed possible when they return after their trip. The death of a single butterfly has drastically altered the world they once knew. The language has developed differently and an important presidential election was decided differently. It is a strong piece of advice to consider how your actions today can affect the future.
These connections are delicate and tenuous, further emphasized by the fact that the small butterfly had such a massive effect on the world. Even if we are aware of the potential ripple effects, we may not consider the fact that a small decision can make a big impact. This is both precautionary and empowering. While the potential for failure exists, the potential to make a positive difference is also present and real.
Bradbury's story is also a gripping environmentalist story. Not only are different time periods connected, but all living things are a part of an interconnected world. His story helps us to see the importance of protecting the natural environment, which is an important issue in today's world
Bradbury's abundant ability to create a vivid image radiates in his description of the Tyrannosaurus Rex, the prey that the hunters have come to kill. His descriptions are filled with metaphors. The T-Rex has "watchmaker's claws," pistons for legs, and thighs of steel. (6) It ran like a ballerina but loomed like an evil god. As successful as the metaphors are on their own, they are even more powerful when set side by side with one another as well as the more realistic descriptors of the dinosaur. Even though the reader has never seen a living Tyrannosaurus Rex, Bradbury's descriptions make it seem as if the dinosaur is standing directly in front of you.
The most powerful part of Bradbury's story is his articulation of the interconnectivity between the past, present, and future. Travis' tirade at the beginning of the story lays out the possible ripple effect that one ill-fated move can have on the future. Unfortunately, Eckels and the rest of the group realize this is indeed possible when they return after their trip. The death of a single butterfly has drastically altered the world they once knew. The language has developed differently and an important presidential election was decided differently. It is a strong piece of advice to consider how your actions today can affect the future.
These connections are delicate and tenuous, further emphasized by the fact that the small butterfly had such a massive effect on the world. Even if we are aware of the potential ripple effects, we may not consider the fact that a small decision can make a big impact. This is both precautionary and empowering. While the potential for failure exists, the potential to make a positive difference is also present and real.
Bradbury's story is also a gripping environmentalist story. Not only are different time periods connected, but all living things are a part of an interconnected world. His story helps us to see the importance of protecting the natural environment, which is an important issue in today's world