The Stranger #3

Albert Camus’ The Stranger seems to display Mersault’s interest in the physical world, often neglecting or disregarding the social and emotional aspects. This understanding relates back to Camus’ absurdist philosophy, or the idea that life is meaningless in its entities. In these recent chapters, Mersault’s experience in the prison both conveys this message and at the same time denounces it. While sitting in his cell, Mersault begins to dream about some of the very things that bring joy to him, such as nature, the ocean, smoking cigarettes, and having sex. These are merely physical enjoyments, and Mersault has stripped any social or emotional meaning behind them, reinforcing Camus’ absurdist philosophy. Within the first few months, Mersault was “tormented by [his] desire for woman. It was only natural; [he] was young. [He] never thought specifically of Marie” (77). The simple fact that Mersault did not even have the emotions to specifically think about Marie but women in general displays his detachment from society and everything that has emotion and meaning. However, the readers learn later on that Mersault is beginning to understand his feelings due to his confinement in prison: “But at the same time, and for the first time in months, I distinctly heard the sound of my own voice” (81). Considering the mannerisms of Mersault, this is progress. He is finally beginning to comprehend more than just the physical aspects of life, and although the absurdist philosophy still plays a major role, the readers finally get a glimpse at Mersault’s conscience. As the novel nears its end, the path Camus can take to either denounce his own absurdist philosophy or promote it will become an interesting decision.