Grade 10
How (And Why) To Read William Faulkner
The article discusses the perplexing and challenging nature of William Faulkner’s literary works. Faulkner intentionally uses confusion to explore the human mind and issues of personal, racial, and regional identity. His novels are set in the fictional county of Yoknapatawpha, which reflects the tensions and contradictions of the American South. The multiple perspectives and time distortions in Faulkner’s fiction allow readers to understand the characters’ biases and blindspots. Additionally, Faulkner’s works explore Southern history and anxieties, while captivating readers with his verbal acrobatics. Despite the confusion, reading Faulkner is rewarding and encourages contemplation of the unreliable nature of history and memory.
