Chapter I. Background

2.3 Individualism and Self-Expression 
American modernist literature, as embodied by the works of the Lost 
Generation writers, placed a significant emphasis on individualism and self-
expression. Amidst the disillusionment and societal upheaval of the post-World 
War I era, these writers sought to challenge and break free from traditional norms 
and conventions, creating compelling narratives centered around the pursuit of 
personal freedom and the exploration of individual identity. Here's a discussion on 
the themes of personal freedom and self-expression in American modernist 
literature: 
1. Breaking Conventional Norms: 
The Lost Generation writers sought to break away from the conventions and 
constraints of society by rebelling against established values and critiquing the 
materialistic and conformist tendencies of their time. They emphasized the 
importance of personal freedom and the rejection of societal expectations in order 
to pursue a more authentic and fulfilling life. 
2. Exploration of Individual Identity: 
American modernist literature delved deep into the complexities of individual 
identity, portraying characters who struggled with their own sense of self and 
wrestled with the existential questions of who they really were. These writers 
explored the multifaceted nature of human existence, delving into the personal 
struggles, desires, fears, and aspirations that shape individual identity. 
3. Rejection of Traditional Gender Roles: 
The Lost Generation writers, particularly women authors such as Gertrude 
Stein and Djuna Barnes, challenged and subverted traditional gender roles, 
providing a platform for female self-expression and empowerment. Their works 
depicted female characters who broke free from societal expectations, asserting 
their agency and challenging gender norms. 
- Examples: 

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- Gertrude Stein's experimental prose and innovative style in works such as 
"Tender Buttons" empowered women's voices and challenged conventional norms 
of language and narrative structure. 
- Djuna Barnes' novel "Nightwood" examined themes of unconventional 
relationships and non-normative gender identities, emphasizing the complexities 
and fluidity of individual expression. 
4. Embracing Artistic Expression: 
American modernist writers valued artistic expression as a means of exploring 
and asserting personal freedom. Through their works, they celebrated the power of 
art to transcend societal constraints, offering a space for experimentation, self-
reflection, and the exploration of individual truth. 
- Examples: 
- Wallace Stevens' poetry, such as "Sunday Morning," explored the role of 
imagination and artistic creation in finding personal liberation and transcendence 
from societal norms. 
- E.E. Cummings' fragmented and unconventional use of language in his 
poetry allowed for a unique form of self-expression, disrupting traditional linguistic 
boundaries and celebrating individuality. 
The pursuit of personal freedom and self-expression in American modernist 
literature demonstrated the desire to break free from societal expectations and 
explore the authentic, individual experience. These writers challenged norms, 
interrogated identity, and celebrated the transformative power of artistic expression. 
Through their innovative narratives and exploration of personal freedom, the Lost 
Generation writers left an enduring legacy, inspiring subsequent generations of 
artists and writers to embrace and assert their own unique voices. 
An analysis of specific authors and their works that embody the 
ideals of personal freedom and self-expression within American 
modernist literature: 
1. Gertrude Stein: 
Gertrude Stein's innovative approach to language and narrative structure, as 
seen in works like "Tender Buttons" (1914), exemplifies her commitment to 

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personal freedom and self-expression. Through her experimental prose, Stein 
challenged conventional notions of meaning and syntax, asserting the importance 
of artistic autonomy and individual interpretation. Her work aimed to dismantle 
traditional barriers in language and celebrate the freedom to express oneself in 
unconventional ways. 
2. Djuna Barnes: 
Djuna Barnes, through her novel "Nightwood" (1936), explored themes of 
personal freedom and self-expression by defying societal norms and expectations. 
The novel delves into the lives of non-conforming individuals, including the 
enigmatic Nora Flood and the eccentric Dr. Matthew O'Connor, as they navigate 
unconventional relationships, sexuality, and gender identities. Barnes' portrayal of 
these characters and their refusal to conform to societal expectations embody her 
commitment to challenging traditional boundaries and asserting individual identity. 
3. Wallace Stevens: 
Wallace Stevens, known for his philosophical and meditative poetry, 
encapsulated the ideals of personal freedom and self-expression in works such as 
"Sunday Morning" (1915). In this poem, he delves into the inner desires and poetic 
imagination of an individual contemplating liberation from societal conventions 
and religious dogma. Stevens celebrates the power of the individual imagination 
and the pursuit of personal joy, offering a vision of personal freedom through 
artistic expression. 
4. E.E. Cummings: 
E.E. Cummings' poetry, characterized by its unconventional and experimental 
use of language and punctuation, exemplifies a commitment to personal freedom 
and self-expression. His exploration of the individual experience and the power of 
the poetic voice is evident in works like the collection "Tulips & Chimneys" (1923). 
Cummings challenges linguistic conventions, dismantling traditional grammatical 
structures to emphasize personal emotion, individuality, and a sense of liberated 
self-expression. 
5. Virginia Woolf: 
Although not technically part of the Lost Generation, Virginia Woolf's works,