... expression of (in Sarraute's words) "these movements of which we are hardly cognisant, that slip through on the frontiers of our consciousness in the form of unidentifiable, extremely rapid sensations" (Tropisms 1939) They are, according to her, the very substance of life because they are instinctive. These sensations superior to language "quelque chose passé de lui à elle, d' a peine perceptible..un moment plus rapide, plus clair que les mots et qu'elle resiste aussitôt" › in order to express these adequately she operates through metaphor (in psychology linked to unconscious intellect) adequate expression of the subterranean movement of the persons psyche. Drama that is seen to exist beneath the friendly surface of the novel is corresponded precisely in this fashion. E. g. Military metaphors when the characters analyse each other's intentions contrast with the outward politeness - the whole flat business: first of all brother: "qaund elle a reconnu l' ...

See this essay or coursework document in full right now