The Use of Collage and Assemblage in Donald Barthelme's Stories

Abstract

Tradilionally the structural analysis of a work of fiction concerns itself with elements of plotted narrative and sequence. Barthelme's fiction, however, is a fiction which lacks or subverts many of the traditional principles. This paper tries to explore Barthelme's individual use of collage and montage in Come Back, Dr. Caligari and in Unspeakable Practices, Unnatural Acts. In these two works Barthelme uses the juxtaposition of fragments as a device to question the role of language and literature and to mock the absurdities and inadequacies of contemporary society.