Oblivion: Stories is a 2004 collection of eight short stories by David Foster Wallace. The collection showcases Wallace’s distinctive prose style, characterized by its length, complexity, and frequent use of footnotes and endnotes. The narratives often explore themes of consciousness, communication, and the challenges of human connection in contemporary American society. A prime example is the titular story, “Oblivion,” which delves into a man’s increasing paranoia surrounding his wife’s supposed snoring.
This collection offers a significant contribution to American literature, particularly postmodern literature, by pushing the boundaries of narrative form and exploring the intricacies of human psychology. Published after Infinite Jest and before The Pale King, Oblivion represents a mature phase in Wallace’s career, demonstrating his mastery of complex narrative structures and his profound insights into the human condition. The stories often feature characters grappling with anxiety, isolation, and the absurdities of modern life, reflecting a broader cultural unease at the turn of the 21st century.
