Themes: Language and Meaning

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A central theme in the novel is the limitation of language. Faulkner delves into this by showcasing the characters' struggles to communicate effectively, Addie's profound distrust of words, and the unconventional vocabulary they use in their narration. The recurring theme is the insufficiency of language to convey thoughts and emotions. Many characters resort to clichés, resulting in misunderstanding instead of clarity. These communication failures are not as extreme as Addie's outright rejection of language. For Addie, words are inadequate for expressing human experience because they are too detached from it. She prioritizes action over words, a sentiment shared by the inarticulate Jewel.

Faulkner further demonstrates the limitations of language by contrasting what characters think with what they say. In their narratives, characters often employ vocabulary that surpasses their educational level or typical speech patterns. These sections emphasize Faulkner's attempt to capture his characters' struggles to find meaning and articulate themselves, thereby commenting on the fragile nature of language itself.

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