Here's how:
* Internal Conflict: The novel focuses heavily on the internal struggles of its protagonist, Leopold Bloom. His thoughts, memories, and desires are constantly in motion, engaging in a complex interplay of emotions, ideas, and subconscious desires. This internal "action" is far more profound and enduring than any physical act.
* Symbolic Journey: Bloom's daylong journey through Dublin mirrors the mythical odyssey of Odysseus, representing a journey of self-discovery and struggle against the currents of life. This symbolic "action" carries a powerful weight, even if it lacks physicality.
* Thematic Tension: The novel explores themes of identity, memory, art, and the human condition. These themes are constantly in motion, creating a sense of tension and dramatic interplay.
* Stream of Consciousness: The unique narrative style of "stream of consciousness" itself is a form of "action," showcasing the dynamic flow of Bloom's thoughts and experiences.
While lacking physical action, Ulysses is a powerful story about the inner life of a man. It explores the complexities of the human experience, the power of memory, and the enduring journey of self-discovery.
It is an action-packed novel in the realm of thought, emotion, and the human condition, rather than in the realm of physical acts.