Accidents Quote by Ray Bradbury
“They walked still farther and the girl said, "Is it true that long ago firemen put fires out instead of going to start them?" No. Houses have always been fireproof, take my word for it." Strange. I heard once that a long time ago houses used to burn by accident and they needed firemen to stop the flames.”
About This Quote
Source Story: The Illustrated Man, 1951
The narrator humorously questions the purpose of firemen, implying that fire is now prevented rather than extinguished, reflecting on changing perceptions of safety.
In simple terms: Firefighters seem unnecessary because fires never happen.
Rethink assumptions about safety.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- urban planning
- public safety
- historical myths
- fire prevention
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Do we ever assume problems are solved without evidence?
- How does humor reveal hidden truths?
The claim ignores that fires still occur and firemen are essential.