Temporality in Literature

Temporality in literature refers to how time is portrayed and experienced within a narrative. It involves the way stories handle the sequence, duration, and flow of events—whether they unfold linearly, jump back and forth in time, or linger on specific moments. This concept shapes how readers perceive the progression of the story, characters, and themes, creating a sense of continuity or dislocation. Essentially, temporality influences the pacing and emotional impact of a literary work by controlling how time is structured and manipulated throughout the narrative.