Cultural context greatly influenced William Faulkner's writings, particularly his portrayal of the American South. Growing up in Mississippi, Faulkner was steeped in the complexities of Southern history, including issues of race, class, and family dynamics. The legacy of the Civil War and its aftermath heavily informed his narratives, as Faulkner explored the tensions and moral ambivalence of his characters. His unique narrative style, often featuring stream-of-consciousness and multi-layered plots, drew from the complexities of Southern life. Faulkner’s works, including The Sound and the Fury and As I Lay Dying, reflect the deep social fabric and contradictions of American identity.