Don DiLillo’s novel, White Noise, is not arbitrarily titled. The term “white noise” refers to the constant presence of technological distractions, which have become so routine they are indistinguishable from one another. Whether the noise come from a radio, a supermarket intercom, the washing machine, or the television it is an acknowledged part of our existence. DiLillo attempts to show American life in the most realistic sense. This would be impossible to do without commenting on the progress of technological advancement. Through these technological references DeLillo suggests a comfort is found.

“The smoke alarm in the hallway went off, either to let us know the battery had just died or because the house was on fire (pg 8).” By slipping these references into everyday occurrences DeLillo demonstrates their presence. After this alarm goes off, Jack and is family continues to eat their lunch. They don’t respond to the alarm, they simply acknowledge it. DeLillo doe not associate these experiences with positive or negative outcomes, he simply acknowledges that they are in our lives. “The National Cancer Quiz was on TV (pg 214).” This quote does not intend to foreshadow any event or explain another event that has already taken place. It just is, like all the other references.

DeLillo inserts technology throughout the book, so frequently that while it was once shocking, confusing, or noticeable it ends up being white noise. The reader becomes as desensitized as the characters. The reader is expecting or, at the very least, accepting these references. By using his examples of white noise throughout the novel, DeLillo creates awareness within the reader. The novel acts as a snapshot of reality. If the reader can become desensitized by reading the words, “The TV said…( pg 29),” repeatedly than he/she can no longer deny the effect of technology on his/her life. Even the most common of appliances can contribute to white noise. The garbage disposal and the washing machine have been around for so long, the reader might not even consider them as part of this distracting, unnatural noise. DeLillo shows the reader that even these useful tools impact our daily routine.

White noise exists in every American’s life. DeLillo suggests that it distracts the main character, Jack Gladney, from his preoccupation with death. This constant sound, this white noise, can distract Jack from his fears, if only for a moment. The white noise suggests company. On some primal level we believe that noise implies that other people are around. One could argue Jack’s fear of death stems from a fear of loneliness. Support for this is found through Jack’s many marriages, his house full of children, and his career choice (standing in a crowded room). Technology has created the illusion of connection. We can hear or see other human beings whenever we choose too. The friends are always there, just waiting for a push of the button or the turn of a knob. There is no real interaction, but perhaps all we need to distract from fears is to know other exist. If others exist it’s possible they share our fears.