The Stranger - Journal 5

Journal 5 - The Stranger is split into two parts divided by Meresault's murder of the Arab. Why did Camus choose to write the book in two parts? What is parallel or contrasting between the two parts? Use quotes to support your argument.

I believe that Camus separated the book into two parts in order for a multitude of reasons. First off, it provides a clear distinction between Meresault's life before and after the murder of the Arab. I think another reason might be to draw attention and to emphasize the closing action of part one. By ending the part right after Meresault shoots the Arab it gives a sense of finality, it emphasizes Meresault's choice to shoot and kill and definitely sets the end of part one as the true climax of the book. The way Camus wrote it the book could almost have ended at that exact moment, without the trial or Meresault's stay in prison. I think if Camus had done this it would have created an interesting effect: the reader would have less insight to Meresault's personal thoughts and philosophies that are expressed in the second part and thus would read deeper and become more intimate with Meresault as they try to understand how he views the world.

In both parts Meresault style of interacting with those around stays consistent, he says little and what he does say is blunt and to the point. This is in contrast with his more complex thoughts and descriptions.

• "The presiding judge asked me if I had anything to say. I thought about it. I said 'no'"(107)
• "I said, 'It's dirty. Lots of pigeons and dark courtyards. Everybody's pale.

In contrast is the way the characters of Maman and Meresault deal with death. The book both opens and closes with death (or near enough). And Meresault's denial of religion before his death is the opposite of Maman, who insists on a religious burial. There is also a sense of differing levels of importance between the two. Meresault's death feels very significant while Maman's seems to be dreary and insignificant.

• "It seems your mother often expressed to her friends her desire for a religious burial" (6)
• "I had only a little time left and I didn't want to waste it on god" (120)