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Joyce used language in a novel and revolutionary way. He
developed the technique known as
stream of consciousness.
In stream of consciousness, Joyce mimicked the way we think
by putting into writing the stream of thoughts that run
through our heads. We do not think linearly—in complete
sentences, only on one subject. Instead, we have a river of
different images, people, ideas and feelings that all
coexist simultaneously.
Joyce also developed the use of
epiphany. An epiphany occurs when you have an
image or symbol associated with a person, feeling, or
abstract idea. An example of an epiphany is the bazaar in
Araby.
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Like in the story Araby, the young boy is fascinated by
an older woman who asks him to get her something at the
bazaar, called Araby. The young boy begins to associate the
two images, the woman and the bazaar. Think of how and older
woman with her perfume, petticoats that hide her feminine
mysteries, hairstyle and mannerisms are similar to a bazaar
with its mysterious art object, incenses, exotic and
beautiful items—especially in the eyes of a young boy
.
When he gets to the bazaar, he is disillusioned by the
ordinary talk of the clerks and the fact that most of the
shops are closed up etc… He also realizes that he
cannot afford to buy any of the mysterious/exotic items
there. He cannot take advantage of the bazaar (represented
by his lack of money and experience) just as he cannot "take
advantage" of the woman’s charms because of his
age.
At this point, he is embarrassed (ashamed and angry), but
more importantly, he gains some self-knowledge. He lacks
experience, learns from his experience and thus succeeds in
growing up a bit. We all remember those difficult times in
adolescence when we aren't grown-up enough, make mistakes,
and by that , we grow up! We get so soon old and so late
smart .
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