The Stranger- Journal #3

I think that Camus splits the stranger into two parts to Meursault's change in character as the story progresses. This is evident when Meursault is describing his thought process in prison. He said that he would have the sudden urge to go on a walk to the beach to feel the waves lapping at his feet. Meursault described this as a freeman's thought. Being able to do whatever you want, whenever you want. He then goes on to describe the progression from freeman's thoughts to a prisoner's thoughts. This was shown when he began to cherish the little things. He began to scan his room looking for the smallest bit of change in any of his belongings so it would trigger memories to pass the time. This shows Meursault cherishing memories which more often then not are over looked completely by society. Meursault then goes on to talk about how he begins to look forward the walk around the courtyard everyday. The sense of freedom that is gained from having the ability to walk outside is another little thing that is often over looked until it is finally taken away. And before all of this happens the guard tells Meursault that they take away his freedom. So Meursault finds his own freedom through these exercises.