Quick Review: The Stranger by Albert Camus

“Maman died today. Or yesterday maybe, I don’t know. I got a telegram from the home: “Mother deceased. Funeral tomorrow. Faithfully yours.” These opening lines from Albert Camus’ timeless classic, “The Stranger,” encapsulate the essence of the novel and set the stage for a thought-provoking exploration of the absurdity of existence. As a first-person narrative by Monsieur Meursault, a man imprisoned for shooting an Arab on a beach, the book takes readers on a journey that challenges societal norms, delves into the depths of human nature, and forces us to question the meaning of life itself.

A Quick Read with a Touch of Despair

“The Stranger” is a quick read that manages to convey a profound sense of unease. Camus masterfully crafts a story that is both captivating and unsettling. While the narrative may be short, its impact lingers long after the final page is turned. The book’s melancholic undertones create an atmosphere of subdued despair, leaving readers with a haunting impression that is difficult to shake off.

A Character That Defies Expectations

At the heart of the novel lies Monsieur Meursault, a character who defies conventional expectations. Unlike typical protagonists, Meursault is indifferent to likability. He navigates through life with an indifference that is both disconcerting and fascinating. This lack of concern for societal norms challenges readers to reassess their own notions of what it means to be relatable and empathetic.

Video Review of The Stranger by Albert Camus

Judged by Character, Not by Crime

One of the most thought-provoking aspects of “The Stranger” is the contrast between Meursault’s expectations of being judged for his crime and the reality of his judgment. Rather than being condemned for his act of murder, Meursault finds himself on trial for his character. The fact that he did not shed a tear at his mother’s funeral and went to a comedy at the cinema the day after her death becomes the focal point of society’s judgment.

This poignant observation highlights the absurdity of a world that prioritizes the rational over the irrational. Meursault’s seemingly inexplicable behavior disrupts the societal need for logical explanations, rendering him a stranger to those around him. Camus suggests that humans have an inherent desire to find meaning even where none exists, ultimately revealing the fallibility of our own condition.

The Detached Observer

Another striking aspect of “The Stranger” is Meursault’s detached way of observing the world. He exhibits a greater interest in the physical realm rather than the social and emotional aspects of life. At his mother’s funeral, Meursault’s preoccupation is not with her passing but with the oppressive heat. Similarly, his fateful act of killing the Arab is motivated by his annoyance with the scorching sun.

This detachment underscores the existential themes of the novel, emphasizing the indifference of the universe towards human existence. Meursault’s detachment mirrors the absurdity of a world where significance is not inherent but rather ascribed by individuals who seek to impose order on a chaotic reality.

A Disturbing Conversation

In a particularly unsettling conversation, Meursault recounts an encounter with a friend who had beaten up his girlfriend:

“Then he wanted to shoot a game of pool, and I just barely lost. Afterwards he wanted to go to a whorehouse, but I said no because I don’t like that. So we took our time getting back, him telling me how glad he was that he’d been able to give the woman what she deserved. I found him very friendly with me, and I thought it was a nice moment.”

This exchange showcases the distorted morality that permeates the novel. Meursault’s nonchalant attitude toward his friend’s violent behavior and his inability to discern the ethical implications of the situation further accentuate the unsettling nature of the story.

Conclusion

“The Stranger” by Albert Camus is a literary masterpiece that challenges readers to confront the inherent absurdity of existence. Through the detached perspective of Monsieur Meursault, the novel explores themes of societal judgment, existential detachment, and the search for meaning in an indifferent world. Camus’ thought-provoking narrative serves as a powerful reminder that our quest for rational explanations and purpose may ultimately lead us astray.

If you’re looking for a short yet profound read that will leave you pondering the mysteries of life, “The Stranger” is a must-read. Camus’ eloquent prose and philosophical insights make this novel a timeless classic that continues to captivate readers to this day.