Stream of consciousness is a narrative technique that attempts to mimic the flow of thoughts and feelings in a character's mind. It often features:
* Non-linear, fragmented sentences: Reflecting the disjointed nature of thought.
* Juxtaposition of seemingly unrelated ideas: Mimicking the associative nature of the subconscious.
* Interior monologue: Direct access to a character's inner thoughts, often without clear transitions or logical connections.
* Sensory details: Evoking emotional states through vivid descriptions of sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and touch.
This technique allows Modernist writers to explore the hidden depths of human experience, revealing the complex, often irrational workings of the subconscious.
Examples:
* James Joyce's "Ulysses": This novel is a prime example of stream of consciousness, using complex and fragmented language to depict the inner life of its protagonist, Leopold Bloom.
* Virginia Woolf's "Mrs. Dalloway": Woolf uses stream of consciousness to present the shifting perspectives and memories of her protagonist, Clarissa Dalloway, as she navigates a single day in London.
By tapping into the subconscious through stream of consciousness, Modernist writers challenge traditional narrative structures and offer readers a unique and intimate glimpse into the depths of human experience.