Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Stream of consciousness is a narrative technique that presents the continuous flow of thoughts, feelings, and sensations experienced by a character. It mimics the way our minds work by capturing unfiltered and often fragmented inner monologues.
Related terms
Interior Monologue: Similar to stream of consciousness, it reveals a character's thoughts but may be more organized and coherent.
Free Indirect Discourse: Blends third-person narration with elements of a character's inner thoughts.
Multiple Perspectives: Narrating events from different characters' points of view to provide varied insights into the story.