If you're looking for a classic American literature that portrays human struggles and emotional turmoil in a family, then "The Sound and Fury" is a must-read. Written by William Faulkner, this novel offers a compelling story of the Compson family, their internal conflicts, and their tragic downfall.
Overview of the Book
"The Sound and Fury" is a novel divided into four chapters, each narrated by a different character. The first three chapters follow the story of the Compson family and their struggles, while the last chapter is a stream of consciousness narrative by the family's mentally disabled son, Benjy. The novel is set in the fictional town of Jefferson, Mississippi, and spans a period of about 30 years, from 1898 to 1928.
Chapter One: April Seventh, 1928
The first chapter is narrated by Benjy's older brother, Quentin, and is set on the day of his suicide. Quentin is plagued with guilt and is unable to come to terms with his family's decline. He is also haunted by his sister Caddy's promiscuity, which he cannot accept and ultimately leads to his tragic end.
Chapter Two: June Second, 1910
The second chapter is narrated by Quentin's younger brother, Jason. He is bitter and resentful towards his family and is obsessed with money. Jason's narration reveals the family's financial problems and his attempts to exploit his niece, Quentin's daughter, for his own gain.
Chapter Three: April Sixth, 1928
The third chapter is narrated by the family's eldest son, Caddy's illegitimate child, and a servant girl's son, Dilsey. Dilsey is the only character who shows compassion and understanding towards the family. Her narration provides an insight into the family's struggles and their inability to come to terms with their past mistakes.
Chapter Four: April Eighth, 1928
The fourth chapter is narrated by Benjy, who is mentally disabled and has no concept of time or reality. His narration is a stream of consciousness, which reflects the family's disintegration and their inability to communicate with each other.
Book Details
| Author | William Faulkner |
|---|---|
| Publication Date | October 7, 1929 |
| Pages | 326 |
| Genre | Modernist Literature |
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
How can I download "The Sound and Fury" PDF?
You can download "The Sound and Fury" PDF by clicking on the link provided at the end of this article.
Is "The Sound and Fury" a difficult read?
"The Sound and Fury" can be challenging to read due to its complex narrative structure and stream of consciousness style. However, it is a rewarding read for those who appreciate modernist literature and Faulkner's writing style.
What is the significance of the novel's title?
The title "The Sound and Fury" is taken from a line in Shakespeare's "Macbeth." The line refers to a speech made by Macbeth after he learns of his wife's death. In the novel, the title represents the family's struggles and their inability to cope with their tragic circumstances.
Final Thoughts
"The Sound and Fury" is a timeless classic that depicts the struggles and emotional turmoil of a family. Faulkner's writing style and narrative structure can be challenging, but the novel's themes and characters make it a rewarding read. If you're a fan of modernist literature, then this book is a must-read.
Click on the link below to download "The Sound and Fury" PDF and immerse yourself in the story of the Compson family.
