Introduction to As I Lay Dying
William Faulkner's As I Lay Dying is a landmark in American literature, renowned for its innovative narrative style and profound exploration of human suffering, family dynamics, and existential despair. Published in 1930, the novel chronicles the Bundren family's arduous journey to bury their matriarch, Addie Bundren, in her hometown of Jefferson, Mississippi. The story is told through multiple narrators, each providing their own perspective, which creates a complex, layered narrative that immerses readers into the characters’ inner worlds. At its core, the novel examines themes of mortality, faith, identity, and the often futile pursuit of meaning amidst chaos.
Overview of the Plot
As I Lay Dying follows the Bundren family as they undertake a physically and emotionally grueling journey to fulfill Addie Bundren's dying wish to be buried in her hometown. The narrative unfolds over several days, revealing the individual struggles and perspectives of each family member. The story is marked by its stream-of-consciousness style, shifting viewpoints, and symbolic richness, making the plot both straightforward and deeply layered.
The Beginning: Addie's Illness and Death
The novel opens with Addie Bundren's declining health. She is a stoic, somewhat indifferent mother whose life has been marked by disillusionment and a sense of futility. Her husband, Anse Bundren, and their children—Cash, Darl, Jewel, Dewey Dell, and Vardaman—prepare for her death. Addie's desire is simple: she wishes to be buried in Jefferson, her hometown, where her family has roots.
As Addie’s health deteriorates, her family begins to make arrangements for her funeral. The narrative delves into the characters’ personalities and backgrounds, setting the stage for the journey ahead. Each family member's motivations and internal conflicts are subtly introduced, hinting at the complexities that will unfold.
The Journey Begins
Once Addie passes away, the Bundrens set out on their journey. The initial plan is straightforward: to transport her body to Jefferson for burial. However, the journey quickly becomes complicated by various obstacles, including natural elements, personal failures, and internal tensions.
The first leg of the journey reveals the family’s resourcefulness and resilience, but also exposes underlying issues. Cash, the eldest son, is a skilled carpenter whose efforts to prepare the coffin and ensure a smooth trip are commendable, yet his meticulousness sometimes clashes with others. Darl, the articulate and introspective son, narrates with poetic insight, offering a reflective view of the events. Jewel, Addie’s fiercely protective son, is notably secretive about his relationship with her, especially his intense attachment to her.
Major Events and Challenges Along the Way
Throughout their journey, the Bundrens face numerous hardships:
- Floods and Natural Disasters: Floodwaters threaten to halt their progress, forcing them to find alternative routes.
- Accidents and Mishaps: The wagon breaks down, and the coffin falls into a river, leading to the death of the coffin and a series of setbacks.
- Personal Struggles: Dewey Dell, the daughter, faces her own crisis, as she becomes pregnant and seeks an abortion, which she struggles to procure.
- Internal Conflict: Darl begins to exhibit signs of mental instability, and his narration becomes more introspective and unsettling.
Despite these difficulties, the family persists, driven by a mixture of duty, stubbornness, and hope to fulfill Addie’s wish.
The Death of the Coffin and the Turning Points
A pivotal moment occurs when the coffin is accidentally destroyed during the journey, symbolizing the fragility of their plans and the overarching theme of mortality. This event prompts the family to improvise: they decide to bury Addie in a box instead, an act that underscores the futility and chaos inherent in their quest.
Darl’s behavior becomes increasingly erratic, leading to his eventual institutionalization. His mental breakdown and the family’s reaction to it highlight themes of sanity and perception, raising questions about identity and reality.
Meanwhile, Dewey Dell’s subplot—her desperation to obtain an abortion—adds another layer of tension. Her secretive efforts involve seeking help from a drugstore and contemplating morally ambiguous actions, reflecting her internal conflict and societal constraints.
The Climax and Resolution
As the journey nears its end, the family finally arrives in Jefferson. Despite the numerous setbacks, they succeed in burying Addie in her hometown. However, the journey's toll is evident: family members are physically and emotionally exhausted, and their relationships have been strained or altered irrevocably.
The novel concludes with a reflection on mortality and the human condition. Vardaman, the youngest, struggles to understand death, famously asking, "My mother is a fish," symbolizing his attempt to make sense of loss through a simplistic, natural metaphor. Darl’s fate remains ambiguous: after his institutionalization, the narrative hints at his possible execution or release, leaving his ultimate destiny open to interpretation.
Thematic Analysis of the Plot
As I Lay Dying is not merely a straightforward story of a family's journey but a profound meditation on existence. Key themes embedded in the plot include:
- Mortality and Death: The journey to bury Addie underscores the universality of death and the human effort to find meaning in mortality.
- Family and Loyalty: The Bundren family’s interactions reveal the complexities of familial bonds, duty, and betrayal.
- Faith and Religion: The characters’ varying beliefs influence their actions and perceptions, highlighting a society grappling with spirituality and doubt.
- Identity and Madness: Darl's mental decline prompts questions about perception, sanity, and self-awareness.
- Futility and Chaos: The series of mishaps and setbacks emphasize life's unpredictability and the often futile nature of human endeavors.
Conclusion
As I Lay Dying remains a powerful exploration of the human condition, using its intricate plot and multi-layered narrative to delve into themes of mortality, family, faith, and madness. The Bundren family's journey is both literal and symbolic, representing the universal struggle to find meaning amid chaos and death. Faulkner’s innovative use of multiple narrators and stream-of-consciousness technique ensures that the story is not just about a physical journey but also about the internal, psychological voyage of each character. Ultimately, the novel challenges readers to confront the fragility of life and the complexities of human relationships, making it a timeless and compelling work of American literature.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main plot of 'As I Lay Dying'?
'As I Lay Dying' follows the Bundren family as they journey to bury their deceased mother, Addie, confronting personal struggles, family tensions, and existential themes along the way.
Who are the main characters in 'As I Lay Dying'?
The main characters include Addie Bundren, her husband Anse, and their children Cash, Darl, Jewel, Dewey Dell, and Vardaman, each offering unique perspectives on the family's journey.
What is the significance of Vardaman's perspective in the novel?
Vardaman's viewpoint provides a child’s innocent and literal interpretation of death and loss, highlighting themes of innocence and confusion amidst the family's suffering.
How does the novel depict different family members' motivations?
The novel reveals diverse motivations: some seek closure, others are driven by duty or personal desires, illustrating complex family dynamics and individual struggles.
What role does stream of consciousness play in 'As I Lay Dying'?
Faulkner employs stream of consciousness to give readers intimate access to each character’s thoughts, creating a layered and multifaceted narrative.
How does the journey to bury Addie reflect themes of mortality and existentialism?
The arduous journey underscores the inevitability of death, human suffering, and the search for meaning in the face of mortality.
In what ways is 'As I Lay Dying' considered a Southern Gothic novel?
It explores themes of decay, family dysfunction, and moral ambiguity set against the backdrop of the American South, embodying Southern Gothic characteristics.
What is the critical reception of 'As I Lay Dying'?
The novel is highly regarded for its innovative narrative style and profound exploration of human nature, solidifying Faulkner’s reputation as a major American writer.
