Southern Modernism as Demonstrated in All the King's Men

Southern modernism has many defining features that can be found throughout various works of literature. These characteristics include the importance of family, Southern history, the role within the community, a sense of justice, the Protestant religion, racial issues, and the use of the Southern dialect. Popular authors, such as Mark Twain and Faulkner, are Southern modernists. 

All the King's Men illuminates southern modernism. For example, the importance of family can be easily seen by the necessity of Willie getting a good picture with his family for his campaign. He needs to be seen as a family man by the public. Furthermore, the sense of justice is exemplified by Willie's work as a lawyer. Additionally, the aspect Southern history is demonstrated as Willie's political career represents and mirrors southern politics. Racial issues are also brought to focus in the novel. For example, the issue of the school being potentially built by African Americans turns the public against not only the cheaper option but also against Willie. Finally, the southern dialect is used vasty throughout the text. It is stronger in the dialogue than in the narration but it is still prominent throughout. All the King's Men exemplifys the many defining characteristics of Southern modernism.