In literature, what does the word fragmentation mean?
I read this definition online, "Fragmentation refers the importance of non-linear narratives and the focus on styles that challenge the ideas of mimesis"
http://www.google.com/search?q=fragmentation+in+literature&rls=com.microsoft:en-us:IE-SearchBox&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&sourceid=ie7&rlz=1I7GGIE_en
Read the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th articles in these search results. It's a difficult concept. Let us know what you decide.
I do not understand anything but non-linear and that is out of context.
I think it's all related to existentialism -- which I barely understand, if at all!!
In literature, fragmentation refers to a narrative technique that emphasizes non-linear storytelling and challenges traditional ideas of mimicking reality. It involves breaking the narrative structure into smaller, disconnected parts or fragments, usually presented out of chronological order. This technique disrupts the linear flow of the story and creates a sense of disjointedness or disconnection for the reader.
To understand the concept of fragmentation in literature, it is helpful to analyze the elements mentioned in the definition:
1. Non-linear narratives: Traditional narratives follow a linear structure where events are presented in chronological order. Non-linear narratives, on the other hand, deviate from this structure by presenting events out of order or by mixing multiple timelines. This can create a sense of ambiguity and complexity in the storytelling.
2. Styles that challenge the ideas of mimesis: Mimesis refers to the representation or imitation of reality in art. Fragmentation challenges this idea by employing unconventional narrative techniques, such as disjointed structures, multiple perspectives, different points of view, or fragmented characters. By breaking away from the traditional mimicking of reality, fragmentation allows for more experimental and innovative storytelling.
Overall, fragmentation in literature serves to disrupt traditional narrative expectations, provoke thought, and offer a different perspective or understanding of the story being told.