

However, the word “maman” is to be noted as it conveys sympathy and attachment to the mother. Here, Meursault is a mere observer in a society lacking any reflection and this apathy can be seen as Meursault presenting the smallness and irrelevance of his mother’s death in the grand universe. The sentences also reflect an apathetic tone, conveying Meursault’s detachment through basic and simplistic writing. This reveals Meursault’s deviant state, supported by his dispassionate comments on his mother’s death. Throughout this passage, the sentences Meursault uses while he reflects on his mother’s death are succinct, short and direct creating dissonance. The atypical behaviour that Meursault exhibits, reveals that he simply notes on his objective observations of events such as the passing of his mother. Though the news of his mother’s death may be heartbreaking or even overwhelming, Meursault appears to be perturbed about the untimely date of the death. Faithfully yours.” That doesn’t mean anything.

I got a telegram from home: “Mother deceased. Thus, in The Stranger, Camus employs a shift in writing style, which transitions from a clear and direct style towards the usage of expressive and descriptive sentences, in order to emphasize the change in Meursault’s perspective.Ĭamus introduces an objective perspective and a direct writing style in the opening paragraph of the novel, “Maman died today. With a change in the writing style, Meursault is revealed as reflective and responsive to events around him.

There are detailed descriptions of pivotal events in Meursault’s life such as the death of the Arab, as he reflects upon them during his time in prison. In the latter half of the novel, however, Camus contrasts this objective style with a more complex writing style, which serves to emphasize a more profound level of introspective thought. His writing style not only reflects Meursault’s indifferent attitude but also reveals a lack of interaction with others.

This is reflected in Camus’ use of succinct sentences and simple diction employed in the novel. As a result of his nonchalant attitude, he is often viewed as psychologically detached. The Stranger, by Albert Camus centres around the protagonist Meursault, an emotionless and indifferent individual.
