Why was the work of second wave American modernist writers darker than those earlier writers?

It's not necessarily accurate to say that second-wave American modernist writers were *darker* than their earlier counterparts. While there are certainly elements of darkness and disillusionment in their works, it's more accurate to say that they explored a *broader range* of themes and emotions, including:

* Disillusionment with the American Dream: The first wave of modernists like Hemingway and Fitzgerald often focused on the romantic aspects of the American Dream, while the second wave writers (like Faulkner, Steinbeck, and Salinger) dealt with its darker side, exposing its hypocrisy and unattainability for many.

* Existentialism and the Absurd: The rise of existentialist philosophy in the mid-20th century influenced second-wave writers to explore themes of meaninglessness, alienation, and the search for individual identity in a seemingly absurd world.

* Social and Political Issues: Second-wave writers often addressed issues like racism, poverty, and war with a stark realism that was less common in the first wave. The Great Depression and World War II profoundly impacted their perspectives and shaped their writing.

* Psychological Depth: The second wave writers delved deeper into the complexities of human psychology, exploring themes of trauma, mental illness, and the inner lives of their characters with more nuance and depth.

The "darkness" perceived in their work might be attributed to:

* Their focus on societal flaws and injustices: The second-wave writers confronted the harsh realities of American society, exposing its inequalities and hypocrisy.

* Their exploration of existential themes: The search for meaning in a seemingly meaningless world can be a bleak and disillusioning experience.

* The influence of historical events: The Great Depression and World War II were profoundly impactful events that left many Americans feeling disillusioned and uncertain.

However, it's crucial to remember that "darkness" is subjective. While some readers might find their works bleak, others might appreciate the honesty and realism with which they depict human experience.

Ultimately, the works of both first and second-wave American modernist writers reflect the complex and nuanced realities of their respective eras. While the second wave might have explored more challenging and darker themes, it's not a simple matter of one wave being "darker" than the other. They each offer unique insights into the human condition and the complexities of American society.