An Examination of the Temporal Structure in Shahla Ujayli’s Novel "Samaah Garibat men Baytena" Based on Gérard Genette’s Theory [In Persian]

The element of time plays a pivotal role in shaping other components of narrative structure and contributes significantly to a deeper understanding of the story’s meaning. Among the most influential theorists in the study of narrative time is the French scholar Gérard Genette, who conceptualizes time in narrative through three key dimensions: order, duration, and frequency. This paper seeks to explore the role of time in Novel "Samaah Garibat men Baytena", a novel by contemporary Syrian author Shahla Ujayli, through the framework of Genette’s theory of anachrony. The novel presents a vivid depiction of Syrian social life during times of regional conflict, portraying the pain, struggles, and challenges faced by the people. Time emerges as a prominent and dynamic element in the novel, as it is central to the unfolding of its varied events. Ujayli navigates the movement of narrative time from chronological (calendar-based) time to textual time, a shift that bears a meaningful relationship to the story’s content. She begins the narrative with a retrospective and extra-diegetic approach, gradually transitions to internal (intra-diegetic) time, and concludes with a forward-looking, anticipatory perspective. In order to facilitate the transition from past to future, and from external to internal temporal dimensions, the author involves her characters in meaningful ways. Their dialogues play a crucial role in shifting the temporal focus from external to internal viewpoints. This temporal structure appears to serve two key functions: first, to reflect the harsh realities of society, and second, to inspire a sense of hope in the reader. Through this technique, Ujayli subtly conveys that hope for change is possible. By streamlining the transition between different temporal layers, she avoids unnecessary narrative delays. Initially, she presents information in a straightforward manner to ease the reader into the story, then strategically introduces anticipatory moments that create suspense and engage the reader’s curiosity and emotional investment.