POSTMODERN LITERATURE Meaning and
Definition
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Postmodern literature refers to a genre of literary works that emerged in the mid-20th century, characterized by a self-conscious and experimental approach to writing and storytelling. It can be viewed as a reaction against the modernist movement in literature, rejecting its linear narrative structure and seeking to push the boundaries of traditional storytelling conventions.
Postmodern literature often incorporates elements of pastiche, irony, intertextuality, and fragmentation. Pastiche refers to the blending or imitation of different styles, genres, or voices within a single work, often resulting in a collage-like effect. Irony is used to challenge and subvert conventional notions of truth, meaning, and authority. Intertextuality involves the incorporation and reinterpretation of existing texts or cultural references, creating layers of meaning and commentary. Fragmentation refers to the deliberate disruption of traditional narrative structures, resulting in non-linear and disjointed storytelling.
Postmodern literature also frequently explores themes of alienation, identity, and the nature of reality. It questions the objectivity of truth and challenges established norms and systems. The genre embraces a playful and self-aware tone, often blurring the lines between fiction and reality, inviting readers to actively participate in the interpretation of the text.
Prominent examples of postmodern literature include works such as "Slaughterhouse-Five" by Kurt Vonnegut, "The Crying of Lot 49" by Thomas Pynchon, and "Gravity's Rainbow" by David Foster Wallace. Overall, postmodern literature can be seen as an innovative and subversive movement in which authors experiment with form, language, and narrative to reflect the complex and fragmented nature of contemporary society.
Etymology of POSTMODERN LITERATURE
The term "postmodern literature" combines two words: "postmodern" and "literature".
The word "postmodern" originated in the mid-20th century and refers to a movement or cultural shift that followed modernism. It emerged in various fields, including art, architecture, philosophy, and literature, among others. The term "postmodern" suggests something that comes after or is in reaction to modernism. It is often associated with a departure from established conventions and a questioning of traditional norms and values.
The word "literature" is derived from the Latin "litteratura", which originally meant "writing formed with letters". Over time, it evolved to encompass various forms of written works, including fiction, poetry, drama, and non-fiction. Literature involves artistic expression through written language and has been a means of communication and storytelling throughout history.
