Write a very short note on Modernism.

Modernism, a cultural and intellectual movement that emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, represents a departure from traditional norms and a pursuit of innovation in various artistic, literary, and intellectual endeavors. Characterized by a break from conventions and a quest for new forms of expression, modernism reflects the tumultuous social, political, and technological changes of the time.

In literature, modernist writers sought to capture the complexity and fragmentation of modern experience. Stream-of-consciousness narrative techniques, unconventional structures, and a focus on the inner thoughts and feelings of characters were prevalent features. Literary figures such as James Joyce, Virginia Woolf, and T.S. Eliot were key contributors to modernist literature.

In art, modernism manifested in movements like Cubism, Abstract Expressionism, and Surrealism, challenging traditional representational forms. Artists such as Pablo Picasso, Wassily Kandinsky, and Salvador Dalí pushed boundaries with innovative techniques and non-representational styles.

Modernism also influenced architecture, design, philosophy, and music, promoting a forward-looking and experimental ethos. The movement reflects a sense of disillusionment with established norms and a desire to embrace the uncertainties and complexities of the modern world.

While modernism encompasses diverse styles and approaches, it is unified by a shared commitment to innovation, individualism, and a rejection of conventional constraints. The legacy of modernism continues to shape contemporary artistic, literary, and intellectual discourses, influencing subsequent movements and fostering a spirit of creative exploration.