A Guide to Literary Genres - Sykalo Eugen 2023
Expressionism
Definition: Literary style refers to the unique and recognizable way in which an author employs language, narrative techniques, and literary devices to convey their artistic vision and ideas. Expressionism in literature is characterized by a focus on subjective experiences, intense emotions, and a rejection of conventional forms. It emerged as a response to the social, political, and cultural upheavals of the early 20th century, seeking to capture the inner world of characters and evoke emotional responses in readers through distorted perspectives, fragmented narratives, and vivid imagery.
Key Features of Expressionism in Literature:
1. Subjective Experience: Expressionist literature places a strong emphasis on the internal thoughts, emotions, and psychological states of characters. Writers often explore characters' inner turmoil and the complexities of human consciousness.
2. Emotional Intensity: Expressionist works are characterized by their intense emotional content. Writers aim to convey powerful emotions, such as anxiety, alienation, fear, and despair, often using vivid and visceral language.
3. Distorted Reality: Expressionist literature may distort reality by altering perspectives, blurring the line between the real and the imagined, and using symbolic or dreamlike imagery. This technique aims to convey the characters' distorted perceptions of the world.
4. Fragmentation and Discontinuity: Expressionist writing often employs fragmented narratives, discontinuous structures, and non-linear timelines to mirror the fractured nature of human consciousness.
5. Social Critique: Expressionism often carries a critique of societal norms, values, and institutions. Writers may use exaggerated or grotesque elements to highlight the absurdities and injustices of the world.
6. Alienation and Isolation: Expressionist literature frequently explores themes of alienation and isolation, portraying characters who feel disconnected from society, others, and even themselves.
7. Innovative Language Use: Expressionist writers experiment with language, syntax, and vocabulary to convey the heightened emotional and psychological states of their characters.
Representatives of Expressionism in Literature:
1. Franz Kafka (1883—1924): A Czech writer known for his surreal and existential stories that explore themes of alienation, bureaucracy, and the absurd. His works, such as "The Metamorphosis" and "The Trial," exemplify expressionist qualities.
2. Georg Trakl (1887—1914): An Austrian poet known for his dark and introspective poetry that delves into themes of death, suffering, and the human psyche. His poems often evoke a sense of foreboding and existential angst.
3. Else Lasker-Schüler (1869—1945): A German-Jewish poet and playwright who embraced expressionist themes in her work. Her poetry explores the inner emotional world and often uses vivid and imaginative language.
4. August Strindberg (1849—1912): A Swedish playwright and novelist whose works reflect expressionist tendencies. His play "A Dream Play" features dreamlike and fragmented narratives that explore the boundaries of reality and illusion.
5. Sherwood Anderson (1876—1941): An American writer whose collection of interconnected short stories, "Winesburg, Ohio," delves into the psychological struggles and isolation of small-town characters.
6. Erich Maria Remarque (1898—1970): A German novelist known for his anti-war novel "All Quiet on the Western Front," which explores the traumatic experiences of soldiers during World War I.
These representatives showcase the diverse expressions of expressionism in literature, emphasizing its focus on inner experiences, emotional intensity, and its response to the changing social and cultural landscape of the early 20th century.