What does "stream of consciousness" mean in literature?

The term "stream of consciousness" in literature refers to a narrative technique that aims to present the thoughts and feelings of a character in a flowing, uninterrupted manner. This approach mimics the natural thought process, allowing readers to experience the internal monologues, emotions, and perceptions that occur in a character's mind in real-time. This method often results in a more intimate and immersive reading experience, as it captures the complexity and fluidity of human consciousness.

In contrast to more structured narrative forms, the stream of consciousness style can often disregard conventional grammar and punctuation to represent the chaotic nature of thought. This technique highlights the nuances of a character's mental state and can provide deeper insights into their motivations and experiences, making it a powerful tool for character development.