The Stranger: The Sun and the Sky

Throughout the book The Stranger by Albert Camus, Meursault is constantly referring to the sun and the sky. In the first chapter, Meursault comments, “the glare from the sun was unbearable” (pg. 16), which gives him a headache and causes him to focus on his discomfort. This the same problem Meursault faces at the end of the Part 1, saying, “the sun was the same as it had been the day I buried Maman, and like then, my forehead especially was hurting me…” (pg. 58).

I believe the weather is symbolism for Albert Camus’ existentialist beliefs. Camus was a very influential existentialist in his time, so undoubtedly he included his belief system within the story. One important factor existentialists believe is the extent to which humans are controlled by nature. This is seen evidently through Meursault because the weather/sky/sun seems to influence his emotions and actions.

When he was on the beach alone with the Arab, Meursault claimed the sun forced him forward towards the Arab (and therefore the spring) because it was so hot. His body craved the water due to the sun’s extreme heat so he had no choice but to continue on. Although he had intentions of leaving the beach because he knew the Arab was dangerous, nature propelled him into going to the spring and consequently to have a confrontation with the Arab.

The sky, especially the sun, is a common motif throughout the book and a symbol of Camus’ existentialist beliefs because Meursault as well as few other characters (ex. Thomas Perez) seem to fall subject to the force of nature.