Introduction
Postmodern literature is a trend in the art of the 20th century. Writers vented in their works the reflection of the horrors of war and the infringement of human rights. The authors denied the era of enlightenment and invested in their books the ideas of the meaninglessness of what was happening in modern life. One of the key figures of the direction are Fitzgerald and Faulkner.
Discussion
Fitzgerald is one of the key figures of the modernist era who changed the direction of literature. Its main theme was the conceptualization of a wealthy and secular society and the desire of people from lower classes to climb the social ladder. The writer indirectly paved a new path to life and destroyed stereotypes about wealth and happiness. Thus, he destroys the ideal of society, which has dominated for many generations.
Fitzgerald explains that a lot of money does not mean a happy and carefree life. As a rule, this is accompanied by internal unhappiness and grief. The heroes of the author aspire to a high position and expensive things, without understanding why they do it. As a result, they understand that all their aspirations are in vain and the dream they were striving for is ephemeral and not as bright as they imagined.
The writer offers a path to a more inclusive lifestyle. He goes from the opposite, showing how the foundations of society in his time are shaky and inferior. Presently, modern people are striving for equality without the highly elevated secular classes. However, Fitzgerald leaves some obstacles that are still relevant today. This is due to his views on the origin of people who, no matter how striving for high society, will remain the descendants of the poor. Modern tolerance is devoid of such views and is aimed at respect for each individual, regardless of their social background. Moreover, speaking of ancestry, people of different racial backgrounds are openly welcomed in society. Thus, Fitzgerald shows a new path for a society in which wealth is not central and does not bring great happiness.
Another writer representing the postmodern era is William Faulkner, who had a significant impact on world literature. One of the main themes of his works is the focus on the life of the American South and the oppression of the black population. One of the main themes of his works is the focus on the life of the American South and the oppression of the black population. The author described the poor lives of people of color who were constantly subjected to racist attacks. Faulkner views the old society of the white South as slave owners fearful for their property and money. At the same time, it can be noted that he displays an inclusive way of life, uncharacteristic of his time.
During Faulkner’s time, black people were just beginning to fight for their rights, and the South represented the old foundations of a society that did not want change. The author showed a challenge to tradition, endowing the heroes of another race with the courage to refuse rude conversations with superiors or representatives of a higher position. Modern society is trying to match the realities proposed by Faulkner. People are directed to an equal life in harmony with any races and representatives of different ethnic groups. In addition, Faulkner singled out people with serious mental illness, who were previously embarrassed and tried not to show sick people. Nevertheless, the trends of the 21st century show the protection of human rights and the possibility of all people to exist in a single society. Thus, Faulkner sets before the people of his time an inclusive path to equality, tolerance, and acceptance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it should be said that Fitzgerald and Faulkner made a significant contribution to the literature of the 20th century, influencing the direction of American art. In addition, both writers denied the generally accepted ideals and dreams of people.
In addition, they opposed social stratification and humiliation. Writers glorified equality and fair treatment. Thus, they became one of the main representatives of the direction.