Final answer:
Montag learns Clarisse died in a car accident, a fact Mildred reveals indifferently, highlighting the desensitization in their society.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the novel "Fahrenheit 451", Montag learns that Clarisse has died in a car accident. It is revealed casually by his wife, Mildred, who seems to be indifferent to the news. This indifference highlights the desensitized and disconnected society in which they live. Mildred mentions the incident offhandedly as if it were a minor, everyday occurrence, and continues on without showing any emotional response. The unusual aspect lies in the stark contrast between the gravity of the news and Mildred's nonchalant attitude when sharing it with Montag.