As I reflect further on The Stranger, by Albert Camus, I continue to appreciate the little details in the writing which display the leading character’s apathetic attitude towards society as he refuses to entertain the societal standards and expectations of the people surrounding him. Within the novel, the leading character Mersault can be characterized by his lack of emotional attachment and overall indifference towards humane experiences as seen in the following conversation between him and his love interest Marie.
βShe was wearing a pair of my pajamas with the sleeves rolled up. When she laughed I wanted her again. A minute later she asked me if I loved her. I told her it didn’t mean any thing but that I didn’t think so. She looked sad. β (p.35)
Mersaultβs inner dialogue at this moment demonstrates his inability to filter or alter through his words in an attempt to please an individual he cares about. He openly admits to lacking these feelings for a woman who is patiently waiting for him to say that he loves her and then proceeds to bluntly state she is sad. Many can interpret this part of the statement to mean that he appeared confused as to why she would look sad whereas I believe he states this fully knowing why Marie would be upset and simply not caring.Β This acts as one of the many inner perspectives the reader has of Mersaultβs character helping to create a complex relationship between Mersault and the reader considering that he is portrayed to be a somewhat likable character despite his various unlikable traits i.e. his lack of emotional attachment.