In this article the concept of the sociocode, as described and used by Fokkema (1984), is used to describe the characteristic way of representation in modernist texts. Representation in literature is explained as the result of a specific set of perceptions which are individually as well culturally determined. From the discussion of the sociocode of Modernism, the conclusion is made that modernist texts do not represent; these texts are presentations, they are primarily concerned with their own ontology. In conclusion the similarities between Modernism as a literary movement in Western Europe and the work of the Sestigers in Afrikaans are indicated. It is suggested that these similarities should be investigated in more detail.