As I Lay Dying is a 1930 Southern Gothic novel by American author William Faulkner.Faulkner's fifth novel, it is consistently ranked among the best novels of the 20th century.The title is derived from William Marris's 1925 translation of Homer's Odyssey,referring to the similar themes of both works.
As I Lay Dying is Faulkner's harrowing account of the Bundren family's odyssey across the Mississippi countryside to bury Addie, their wife and mother. Narrated in turn by each of the family members -- including Addie herself -- as well as others; the novel ranges in mood, from dark comedy to the deepest pathos. Considered one of the most influential novels in American fiction in structure, style, and drama, As I Lay Dying is a true 20th-century classic.
The novel uses a stream-of-consciousness writing technique, multiple narrators, and varying chapter lengths.
