Sociolinguistic Analysis: When Darija Becomes a Literary Language in Fahla by Rabah SABAA

Abstract : This sociolinguistic analysis of Rabah SABAA’s novel Fahla highlights the use of « Darija », the Algerian vernacular, as a central tool of literary expression. The writer revitalizes this marginalized language by choosing Latin script, thereby creating a hybrid work. The research focuses on the phonetic, phonological, and semantic dimensions of « Darija », revealing a reconfiguration of Algerian literature. By placing this popular language at the core of his novel, the author raises significant sociolinguistic and cultural issues, particularly the reaffirmation of Algerian identity and resistance to external influences, while illustrating the social realities of contemporary Algeria. Keywords: sociolinguistics, Darija, latin script, linguistic hybridization, cultural identity.