Modernism Vs. Realism

Modernism is a differing style of writing. It contrasts with that of Realism pieces, due to its ability to effectively convey opposition within literature and art. Opposition, being an adequate description of the altering styles, can only further display Modernism's successful transition from reality to abstract and unrecognizable themes. Following the Realism movement, Modernism grasped itself with such force and opposition. Because of this, it is made apparent that the contrasting style is overall effective in its undeniable attempt to recreate originality and value within the literary community. Further deciphering this style, the structure throughout is more raw, spontaneous, and charged by secular themes. As in secular themes, one may compare this to Modernism's opposition toward religion. It does not use religion as a supreme source, although it is often involved within these pieces. Art, being a contrasting subject or medium as well, was characterized by abstract lines and contrasting strokes. Many authors and artists were stifled by resenting supporters who did not respect the idea of Modernism. Modernism represents originality and creativity. It is one of the few styles which uses one's representational thoughts to create an effective piece. It defies structure and tradition. Because of this quality, Realism cannot retain much similarities between the opposing style, Modernism.

According to Michael Plante in the article "Modernism," the contrasting style of Modernism stresses "newness" and "innovation." This correlates with the idea of opposition. Opposition, in this case, would undoubtedly refer to the opposition of tradition and the conservation of morality and religion. Plante believes that Modernism was "dominant" between 1890 and roughly 1945 (Plante). With this said, many conservative supporters did not find such positive correlation with the new style. They believed it represented a division or split from Realism and its traditional style. Realism did not retain the use of "innovation" or strong creativity (Plante). After much observation, it is made apparent that Modernism only further displays the liveliness and originality that Realism lacked.

Modernism emerged as a prominent source of writing in the late 1800's (Plante). It originated in France, though it was quickly submerged in English and American writing. Modernists writers such as T.S. Elliot, James Joyce, and J.D. Salinger used the style as an effective alternative to Realism (Plante). They evoked such ideas and actions as would the avant-garde. This would refer to the arousal of such creative ideas and innovations as displayed in Modernism. After being recognized for its differing style, it is made clear that Modernism retains the use of originality to effectively convey its prominence.

Realism is a style of writing based upon tradition and the conservation of religious and moral themes; opposing this would be the once recently refined style of Modernism. Modernism conveys creativity and innovation. As stated by Michael Plante, Modernism stressed such "innovation" and "newness." Clearly depicted within literary pieces, Modernism uses much examples of this with authors such as J.D. Salinger and T.S. Elliot. Salinger prevented the use of religion with his critically acclaimed novel, The Catcher in the Rye. The controversial novel displayed no religious resolutions, only the depiction of two charitable nuns. Without this resolution, it was made apparent that Modernism and a secular formation of words may relieve the previous style, Realism. Its success only further retains prominence and praise throughout the altering society and literary community.

Plante, Michael. "Modernism." World Book Advanced. World Book, 2011. Web. 3 May 2011.