Modernist stories differed from the plots typical of regionalism and naturalism in several ways. Here are some key differences:
1. Subject Matter: While regionalism and naturalism focused on rural or small-town settings and the lives of working-class characters, modernist stories often explored more urban, cosmopolitan settings and the lives of characters from the middle or upper classes.
2. Structure: Modernist stories often played with traditional narrative structure, including non-linear plots, fragmented timelines, and unconventional forms of narration. Regionalist and naturalist stories, on the other hand, typically followed a more traditional narrative structure, with a clear beginning, middle, and end.
3. Style: Modernist stories often utilized experimental or avant-garde writing styles, such as stream-of-consciousness narration, free association, and collage. Regionalist and naturalist stories tended to be more straightforward in style and focused on realistic depictions of everyday life.
4. Themes: Modernist stories often explored themes related to identity, alienation, and existential crisis, while regionalist and naturalist stories tended to focus more on themes of social injustice, poverty, and the struggle for survival.
In summary, modernist stories represented a departure from the more traditional styles and subjects of regionalism and naturalism. They often employed innovative narrative techniques, explored new themes, and focused on the experiences of characters from different social classes and environments.