As I Lay Dying

Definition

As I Lay Dying is a novel by William Faulkner, published in 1930, that tells the story of the Bundren family's journey to fulfill their dying matriarch's wish to be buried in her hometown of Jefferson, Mississippi. The novel is noted for its stream-of-consciousness style and multiple perspectives, showcasing the inner thoughts and struggles of its characters as they face themes of death, family loyalty, and existential despair. It stands as a critical work within Modernism due to its innovative narrative techniques and exploration of complex human emotions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The novel is told through the perspectives of 15 different characters, allowing readers to see the story from multiple angles and gain insight into their motivations.
2. Faulkner employs a unique style that combines realistic dialogue with fragmented thoughts, which can be challenging but also deeply immersive for readers.
3. Themes of existentialism are prevalent throughout the book, with characters grappling with their identities, purpose, and the inevitability of death.
4. As I Lay Dying was written in just six weeks, showcasing Faulkner's ability to produce a complex narrative in a short amount of time.
5. The title reflects both the physical journey of the characters carrying their mother's coffin and the metaphorical journey they undergo as they confront their own inner turmoil.

Review Questions

• How does Faulkner's use of multiple perspectives in As I Lay Dying enhance the reader's understanding of the characters' motivations?
  • Faulkner’s use of multiple perspectives allows readers to delve into the inner thoughts and emotions of each character, providing a more nuanced understanding of their motivations. Each character's unique viewpoint sheds light on their personal struggles and relationships within the family. This approach not only creates a rich tapestry of voices but also emphasizes the complexity of human experience as each character reacts differently to shared events, particularly concerning their mother's death.
• Discuss how As I Lay Dying exemplifies Modernism through its narrative structure and themes.
  • As I Lay Dying exemplifies Modernism through its innovative narrative structure that employs stream-of-consciousness techniques. The fragmented thoughts and non-linear storytelling reflect a break from traditional forms, mirroring the disarray and uncertainty of modern life. Additionally, themes such as existential despair and the search for identity resonate with Modernist concerns about the human condition in an increasingly chaotic world. These elements highlight Faulkner's experimentation with form and content typical of Modernist literature.
• Evaluate the significance of familial relationships in As I Lay Dying and how they contribute to the overarching themes in the novel.
  • Familial relationships in As I Lay Dying are central to understanding both individual characters and the broader themes within the novel. The dynamics among family members reveal deep-seated tensions, loyalties, and betrayals that complicate their journey to honor their mother's wishes. These relationships illustrate themes of love, duty, and existential isolation as characters confront their own vulnerabilities and desires. The way they interact with one another underscores Faulkner's exploration of human connection amidst tragedy, making these relationships pivotal to the novel's impact.

Related terms

Stream-of-Consciousness: A narrative technique that attempts to capture the flow of thoughts and feelings running through a character's mind, often disregarding conventional sentence structure.

Southern Gothic:

A subgenre of Gothic fiction that takes place in the American South, characterized by its use of grotesque characters, dark themes, and social critique.

Modernism: A broad cultural movement that emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, emphasizing new forms of expression and a break from traditional styles in literature, art, and architecture.