In simple terms, the quote suggests that modernist writers choose to depict reality through a continuous present tense rather than a straightforward narrative because they believe it captures life more accurately. This approach challenges readers by showing that life does not unfold in a linear sequence of events but instead as a complex interplay of thoughts and emotions.
Delving deeper into the quote, Will Self emphasizes the emotional rationale behind modernist writers' preference for stream-of-consciousness techniques. They aim to reflect the intricacy and fluidity of human experience, which often defies neat categorization or simple past tense descriptions. This method not only mimics the way people actually think and feel but also disrupts conventional storytelling norms, pushing readers to engage more actively with the text and question traditional narrative structures.
Will Self is a contemporary British novelist, essayist, and broadcaster known for his provocative and often experimental writing style. His work frequently explores themes of identity, technology's impact on society, and the complexities of human existence.
