Postmodern sensibilities

Definition

Postmodern sensibilities refer to a set of characteristics and attitudes in literature and art that challenge traditional narratives, embracing ambiguity, fragmentation, and irony. This perspective often critiques established norms and conventions, questioning the nature of reality, identity, and authorship. In the context of literature, postmodern sensibilities reflect a shift towards subjective experiences and an exploration of the complexities of human psychology.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Postmodern sensibilities often manifest through unreliable narrators and multiple perspectives, highlighting the subjective nature of truth.
2. In literature marked by postmodern sensibilities, authors frequently play with structure and form, leading to non-linear narratives and fragmented plots.
3. Irony is a key feature of postmodern sensibilities, allowing authors to comment on societal norms while simultaneously subverting them.
4. This perspective often emphasizes the absurdity of existence, reflecting a skeptical view of grand narratives or universal truths.
5. Machado's works exemplify postmodern sensibilities by incorporating psychological depth and social critique, showcasing the complexities of human experience.

Review Questions

• How do postmodern sensibilities manifest in literary works through narrative techniques?
  • Postmodern sensibilities manifest in literary works primarily through the use of unreliable narrators and non-linear storytelling. These techniques create a sense of ambiguity and challenge readers' perceptions of reality and truth. By presenting fragmented narratives, authors encourage readers to question the nature of the narrative itself and how it relates to broader themes of identity and existence.
• What role does irony play in postmodern literature, particularly in relation to societal critique?
  • Irony plays a crucial role in postmodern literature by allowing authors to critique societal norms while simultaneously subverting them. This ironic stance encourages readers to reflect on the absurdity of certain conventions and beliefs, prompting deeper thought about accepted truths. In this way, postmodern sensibilities foster an environment where traditional values are questioned and re-examined through a critical lens.
• Evaluate how Machado's incorporation of psychological depth contributes to postmodern sensibilities in his literary works.
  • Machado's incorporation of psychological depth enriches his works by revealing the intricate complexities of human experience, aligning with postmodern sensibilities that embrace ambiguity and subjective interpretation. By delving into characters' inner thoughts and emotions, he creates a layered narrative that reflects the fragmented nature of identity. This approach not only critiques societal structures but also highlights the individual's struggle for meaning in a world perceived as chaotic and uncertain.

Related terms

Intertextuality: The relationship between texts and how they reference or influence one another, emphasizing that no text exists in isolation.

Metafiction: A form of fiction that self-consciously addresses the devices of fiction, often blurring the boundaries between fiction and reality.

Pastiche: A literary or artistic work that imitates the style or character of other works, combining multiple elements from different sources.