synecdoche

   The first lines of The Stranger serves as synecdoche for the rest of the novel because they establish Meursault's detachment and overall lack of recognition of social standards that continue throughout the story and play a crucial role. In the opening lines, he describes learning of the death of his mother, "Maman died today. Or yesterday maybe, I don't know. I got a telegram form the home" (1).  The indifferent tone in which he discusses an otherwise significant event, present throughout his narration. Meursault also shows a lack of understanding as to what others find appropriate. The 'joke' about how his mother's death wasn't his fault went unappreciated by his boss and when Meursault is actually guilty of murder, the rest of the characters continue to disapprove. For a novel with an unconventional main character, especially one with an unorthodox consciousness, it is important to establish the methods in which the story will be told.