If you were reading a story in the Modernist genre which there is very little external action what might this lead to believe about intentions?

If you're reading a Modernist story with very little external action, it suggests that the author's primary focus is not on plot or events, but on internal states, consciousness, and the complexities of the human experience. Here's how this lack of external action might lead to certain beliefs about the author's intentions:

Intention 1: Exploring the Subjectivity of Reality

* Modernist writers often challenged the traditional notion of a singular, objective reality. By focusing on internal states and individual perspectives, they emphasize that reality is subjective and shaped by each individual's perception.

* The lack of external action pushes the reader to delve deeper into the characters' thoughts, feelings, and memories, forcing them to construct their own understanding of the story's meaning.

Intention 2: Examining the Power of Language and Memory

* Modernist writers often used stream-of-consciousness techniques, fragmented narratives, and non-linear storytelling to mimic the fluidity of thought and memory. This focus on language and its power to shape reality is often present in stories with minimal external action.

* The author might be exploring how language can be used to create, distort, and ultimately control our understanding of the world.

Intention 3: Challenging Traditional Narrative Structure

* Modernist writers often rebelled against conventional narrative structures, believing them to be limiting and unrealistic. By focusing on internal states and subjective experiences, they broke free from the constraints of linear plot and exposition.

* This deliberate break from traditional storytelling techniques might be intended to challenge the reader's expectations and force them to engage with the story on a deeper, more introspective level.

Intention 4: Exploring the Nature of Human Consciousness

* Modernist writers were fascinated by the complexities of the human mind, particularly its subconscious workings. By focusing on internal states and exploring the characters' thoughts and feelings, they offer a glimpse into the inner workings of the human psyche.

* The lack of external action allows the author to highlight the profound and often chaotic nature of human consciousness.

In conclusion, a Modernist story with little external action is not necessarily a sign of poor storytelling, but rather a deliberate choice by the author to explore the inner lives of their characters, the subjectivity of reality, the power of language, and the complexities of human consciousness. By engaging with the text on this deeper level, the reader can gain a deeper understanding of the author's intentions and the multifaceted nature of human experience.