Yes how Camus uses time to show how meursault is more satisfied in part 2
Camus uses the contrasting perseptions of time in part 1 and part 2 to imply how Meursault is more satisified with in part 2.
Within part 1, Meursault's perception of time proves important for precision. By stating that his boss "wasn't too happy" about Meursault missing a couple days of work for a funeral, considers a strict consistency in work arrivals. This attitude carries on as far as planning the amount of time dedicated towards Meursault's sleeping, as well: "I knew I was going to go to bed and sleep for twelve hours."(18) This implication towards a habitual lifestyle proves correct as Camus uses phrases such as, "as usual", and "nothing has changed". The habitual lifestyle carries on within the minor characters as well: "Twice a day, at eleven and six, the old man takes the dog out for a walk" (27). Meursault's behavior, although, implies a subtle rebellion towards this society-driven routines and guidelines. "But I hesitated, because I didn't know if I could do it with Maman right there. I thought about it; it didn't matter. I offered the caretaker a cigarette and we smoked"(8). These subtle rebellions also were highlighted by Meursault's slight isolation in society. This creates an individualism that brings out happiness within him. These subtle rebellions carry onto the development of the action that leads him into jail. In part 2 of the book, instead of time being routine, it became something vulnerable for imagination. "I realized then that a man who had lived only one day could easily live for a hundred years in prison. He would have enough memories to keep him from being bored. In a way, it was an advantage"(79). This imagination contrasted against societies pre-planned lives for its' citizens, and with this sense of individualism, Meursault found his voice: "And for the first time in months, I distinctly heard the sound of my own voice"(81).
No comments:
Post a Comment