1. Memorization: The hobos were dedicated to preserving knowledge. They memorized entire books, acting as walking libraries. This was their primary method of preserving literature, as they knew that physical books were becoming increasingly dangerous to possess.
2. Oral Storytelling: They passed the stories and knowledge they memorized onto each other, ensuring that the information was passed down through generations. This fostered a strong sense of community and preserved the essence of the books.
3. Hidden Libraries: The hobos also built secret libraries, concealing them in the wilderness. They carefully stashed books in abandoned mines, deep underground, or in other remote locations. These hidden sanctuaries acted as repositories of knowledge, safeguarding them from the authorities.
4. The "Book of Ecclesiastes": A pivotal moment in the novel is when a hobo hands Montag a copy of Ecclesiastes, marking a significant turning point in Montag's journey toward knowledge and rebellion. This book serves as a powerful symbol of the hobos' efforts to preserve literature and inspire others to join their cause.
The hobos' preservation efforts were not always smooth. They faced constant danger and the threat of being caught by the authorities. But their dedication to preserving literature and their unwavering belief in the power of words helped to ensure that knowledge would survive, even in a world where books were forbidden.