* Internal struggles and psychological states: Modernism often explored the complexities of human consciousness, focusing on characters' inner thoughts, emotions, and memories. Limited external action allows the writer to delve deeper into these psychological depths.
* Existential themes: The lack of external action can emphasize a sense of meaninglessness or alienation in the world. This can lead to explorations of existential questions about life, death, and the search for meaning.
* The power of language: Modernists often experimented with language, using fragmented sentences, stream of consciousness, and other techniques to capture the subjective nature of perception. The absence of external action allows the language itself to become the primary focus, carrying the weight of meaning.
* Critique of social norms: By focusing on the internal lives of characters, Modernist writers often implicitly criticized the limitations and superficiality of societal expectations and norms. The lack of external action can highlight the disconnect between individual experience and the external world.
* Emphasis on symbolism and imagery: Modernists often employed symbolism and imagery to convey complex ideas and emotions. In the absence of external action, these symbolic elements become more prominent, adding layers of meaning to the narrative.
Therefore, limited external action in a Modernist story suggests a deliberate attempt by the writer to explore internal complexities, existential themes, language as a tool of expression, and the individual's struggle within societal structures. The story becomes a journey into the depths of human consciousness, often with a focus on the subjective experience of the world.