Theory of defamiliarization discussed by Viktor Shklovsky in 500 words

Defamiliarization, or "ostranenie," is a critical concept introduced by Russian formalist literary theorist Viktor Shklovsky in his 1917 essay "Art as Technique." This theory posits that art's primary function is to make the familiar strange, rejuvenating our perception of the mundane and enabling us to engage with the world in a fresh and meaningful way. Shklovsky argues that through defamiliarization, artists can disrupt the habitual ways of seeing and experiencing reality. When we engage with everyday life, our perceptions often become mechanized; we glide through our experiences without truly seeing or feeling them. This is a state of "automaticity," where our routine dismisses the richness of our surroundings. Shklovsky contends that art serves as a means to counter this banal existence by reawakening our awareness. By presenting the familiar in an unfamiliar way, artists compel us to pause, reflect, and ultimately re-examine our perceptions. An example Shklovsky gives is the act of describing a simple object, like a potato. He suggests that a straightforward, practical description can render this commonplace item mundane. In contrast, when artists imbue it with a sense of strangeness—through inventive metaphor or unexpected imagery—they challenge our preconceived notions and urge us to consider its essence anew. This process not only revitalizes our understanding but also enhances our emotional and intellectual engagement with the subject. Defamiliarization is not restricted to language and visual arts. It can be observed across various forms of artistic expression—music, theater, film, and beyond. By employing unconventional narrative structures, surreal imagery, or disruptive techniques, artists can elevate audience awareness and provoke introspection. For instance, in cinema, an unconventional camera angle or editing style might shift viewers' perceptions and prompt them to question their understanding of the narrative. Moreover, Shklovsky emphasizes that defamiliarization is a vital component of not just art, but of culture itself. He believed that every artistic creation is a response to routine and a mechanism for navigating through it. In this way, art serves as both a reflection and a critique of society. By highlighting the strangeness of the familiar, artists encourage us to recognize societal norms, conventions, and expectations that often go unchallenged in daily life. The implications of Shklovsky's theory extend beyond literature and art. In a rapidly commercialized and digitized world, the need for defamiliarization remains significant. As contemporary society grapples with the effects of technology, ideologies, and globalized consumer culture, the potential for art to provoke critical thought and foster awareness is vital. It offers an avenue for individuals to reconnect with their perceptions and question their realities. In conclusion, Viktor Shklovsky's theory of defamiliarization emphasizes the transformative power of art to reframe our understanding of the ordinary. By making the familiar strange, art compels us to engage more deeply with our surroundings and experience life with renewed vigor. This process is fundamental to both individual perception and broader cultural critique, highlighting the enduring significance of defamiliarization in an evolving world.