"The Curious Case of Benjamin Button," by F. Scott Fitzgerald, is a novella that explores identity and societal norms through its protagonist, who ages in reverse. Published in 1922, the story critiques the rigid expectations linked to age. Fitzgerald uses Benjamin Button not merely as a character but as a symbol of the absurdities imposed by societal standards.
Benjamin’s reverse aging serves as a stark metaphor for the alienation of those who diverge from societal norms. Through his narrative, Fitzgerald subtly dissects our obsessions with youth and the fear of aging, encapsulating a powerful critique of conformity and time’s relentless march. The work challenges us to ponder what defines a meaningful life, remaining a poignant commentary on human existence.
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