Here's a breakdown of the key elements:
* Unfiltered Thoughts: It's like eavesdropping on the internal monologue of a character, including random ideas, memories, sensations, and emotions, without any censorship.
* Fluid and Disconnected: The narrative jumps from one thought to another, often with no clear connection or transition.
* Subjective Perspective: It focuses entirely on the character's internal world and their unique way of perceiving and experiencing the world.
* Non-linear Structure: Time and logic often take a backseat as the stream of consciousness follows the natural, chaotic flow of the mind.
Examples:
* James Joyce's "Ulysses": Known for its extensive use of stream of consciousness, the novel delves into the mind of Leopold Bloom as he navigates Dublin.
* Virginia Woolf's "Mrs. Dalloway": This novel explores the thoughts and feelings of Clarissa Dalloway as she prepares for a party.
Key Characteristics:
* Free association of ideas
* Interior monologue
* Lack of traditional punctuation
* Use of sensory imagery
* Emphasis on subjective experience
Stream of consciousness is a powerful technique for creating a sense of immediacy and realism, allowing readers to experience the world through the eyes of the character.