Exploring Imaginative Realm: Doris Lessing's Sci-Fi Narratives and Text-World Techniques in The Memoir of a Survivor and Briefing for a Descent into Hell

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Ph.D. Student, Department of English, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran

2 Assistant Professor, Department of English, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran

3 Department of Humanities, Qom Branch, Islamic Azad University, Qom, Iran

Abstract

This study investigates Doris Lessing's narrative techniques for depicting fictional realms in her science fiction stories. Focusing on two pivotal works, The Memoirs of a Survivor and Briefing for a Descent into Hell, we examine how Lessing employs World-Building Elements and Function-Advancing Propositions, as defined by Gavin's Text-World Theory, to represent imaginary text-worlds and develop the discourse in her science fiction stories. Our analysis reveals Lessing's adept use of supernatural world-building elements, such as one-eyed giants, giant fishes, and armies of angels, to establish the backdrop of her narratives. Additionally, she utilizes unreal, transtemporal, and extraterrestrial actions—such as passing through walls and temporal excursions—to propel the narrative and enrich its discourse. The temporal and spatial elements remain ambiguous and unknown, with narrative progression primarily occurring through mental and relational processes. This study helps to understand and identify Lessing's narrative techniques in her science fiction stories, offering a unique perspective on examining her works.

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Main Subjects

Linguistic Studies: Theory and Practice

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 27 June 2024

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History

  • Receive Date: 08 April 2024
  • Revise Date: 26 June 2024
  • Accept Date: 27 June 2024

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