Literature as a window to the mind

Abstract

Proceeding from Roman Jakobson's suggestion that the analysis of literature should constitute a recognized branch of linguistics, this discussion shows how literature can shed light, not only on the features of language that contribute to aesthetic effects, but also on human mental processing, and specifically the nature of human consciousness. A fictional character's consciousness may be represented either directly or with mediation by an omniscient narrator. A character's conscious attention may be focused either on the immediate environment or on displaced experiences that are remembered or imagined. Literature illuminates the different qualities that characterize immediate and displaced consciousness. It also sheds light on the several varieties of conscious experience, which range from raw perceptions, emotions, and actions to preverbal and fully verbal structures. It is suggested finally that studying translations of literary works can be useful in highlighting the properties of preverbal organization.