Fragmented Histories: The Historiographic Metafiction of Walter Abish’s “Ardor/Awe/Atrocity”

Walter Abish's “Ardor/Awe/Atrocity” (1977) emerges as a significant narrative that intricately explores themes of memory, trauma, and the fragmentation of history, all articulated through the perspective of the character Jane. Jane's experiences within the narrative serve as a vital framework for interrogating the far-reaching themes inherent in historiographic metafiction, a defining characteristic of postmodern literature. This article examines Jane’s journey as a reflection of the fragmented and subjective nature of historical representation, emphasizing how Abish critiques linear historical discourse while engaging with postmodernism’s skepticism towards grand narratives. Through the employment of techniques such as narrative disjunction, unreliable memory, and the blending of fact with fiction, Abish uses Jane’s fragmented narrative to examine the uncertainties surrounding historical representation and identity formation. This analysis situates these themes within the broader discourse of postmodern American fiction, demonstrating the ways in which Abish's work challenges conventional understandings of history and narrative.