Review the following stories “A Sound of Thunder” by Ray Bradbury
Evidence – Integrate a quote that
shows theme in the story.
Put author’s last name and page
number after this sentence in
parentheses.
Example: (Bradbury 3).
“A Sound of Thunder” by Ray Bradbury is a thrilling science fiction story that explores the consequences of time travel and the effects of our actions on the future. The story revolves around a man named Eckels who goes on a hunting expedition back in time to kill a Tyrannosaurus Rex. However, when Eckels accidentally steps off the designated path, he unknowingly alters the course of history. The dominant theme in this story is the butterfly effect, where even the smallest of actions can have significant and far-reaching consequences.
One quote that effectively highlights this theme is when Eckels and the hunting guide, Travis, discuss the potential ramifications of changing the past. Eckels is hesitant to step out of the Time Machine and expresses his concern by saying, "Steps on a path might be retraced, but no sound can now re-echo from the walls of time there" (Bradbury 5). This quote emphasizes the irrevocable nature of time and the irreversible damage that can be caused by even the tiniest alteration.
Another quote that reinforces the theme of the butterfly effect is when Eckels witnesses the subtle changes in the environment upon his return to the present. He notices that "somehow, the stench of death was already upon him... The stink of raw flesh blew down the wilderness" (Bradbury 9). This quote illustrates how the killing of a single dinosaur in the past has disrupted the delicate balance of nature in the present, resulting in a gruesome and dystopian future.
Overall, “A Sound of Thunder” is a thought-provoking story that warns us about the potential consequences of our actions. Through the theme of the butterfly effect, Ray Bradbury effectively conveys the idea that even seemingly insignificant choices can have profound and unpredictable impacts on the future. This story serves as a cautionary tale, urging us to consider the potential long-term effects of our decisions and to approach the delicate balance of nature with reverence and care.