What is a key feature of the narrative style used in O'Neill's plays?

The use of autobiographical elements is a key feature of the narrative style in Eugene O'Neill's plays. O'Neill often drew upon his own life experiences, family dynamics, and personal struggles to inform his characters and their journeys, creating a deep sense of authenticity and emotional resonance. This autobiographical influence is particularly evident in works like "Long Day's Journey Into Night," where the characters reflect O'Neill's own familial relationships and struggles with addiction, illness, and the pursuit of personal fulfillment. By embedding elements of his life into his narratives, O'Neill provides audiences with a poignant exploration of universal themes such as identity, despair, and the search for meaning, often elevating the emotional stakes within his work.

This aspect of his narrative style invites a more personal connection with the audience, as they can see reflections of real human experiences and relationships that resonate on a broader scale. In contrast, the other options, like direct and simple dialogue, complex symbolism, or humor and satire, do play roles in literature but are not as definitive or prominent in O'Neill’s unique storytelling approach as his autobiographical influences.