| Acknowledgements | 第6-7页 |
| 摘要 | 第7-8页 |
| Abstract | 第8-9页 |
| Introduction | 第11-20页 |
| ChapterⅠ An absurd world in an urban environment | 第20-32页 |
| 1.1 Parties and the Cabaret Culture powered by hedonism | 第20-24页 |
| 1.2 Living space redefined by mechanical strength | 第24-27页 |
| 1.3 The bustling streets with no home to return | 第27-32页 |
| Chapter Ⅱ Existential predicament of individuals in modern cities | 第32-44页 |
| 2.1 Ubiquitous loneliness in the madding crowd | 第32-34页 |
| 2.2 Futile fight against nothingness: a disillusioned dream | 第34-38页 |
| 2.3 Objectification and Alienation | 第38-44页 |
| 2.3.1 Objectification- The frivolous Flippers & The femme fatale | 第38-41页 |
| 2.3.2 Multi-faceted alienation in modern society | 第41-44页 |
| Chapter Ⅲ Search for meaning beyond the urban context: freedom of choice | 第44-49页 |
| 3.1 Amory, Gatsby and Pierrot: an authentic life chosen by oneself | 第44-46页 |
| 3.2 Anthony and the Five in a Nightclub: beaten by life for fleeing one’sresponsibility | 第46-47页 |
| 3.3 Writing as a form of responsibility: the artists’ choices | 第47-49页 |
| Conclusion | 第49-51页 |
| Bibliography | 第51-55页 |
