Storytelling Motif, Self-Reflexive Tone and Metanarrative Mode in the Translations of Ahmet Hamdi Tanpınar s The Time Regulation Institute

This study examines English translations of Ahmet Hamdi Tanpınar’s The Time Regulation Institute (1961), translated by Ender Gürol (2001) and Maureen Freely and Alexander Dawe (2013) respectively. The study focuses on translating storytelling motifs, self-reflexive tone, and metanarrative mode. Using Andrew Chesterman’s model of translation strategies, the paper discusses the versions from a narratological perspective. Findings show that Gürol leans more towards the syntagmatic and semantic layers, while Freely & Dawe draw more on pragmatic strategies, breaking structures into more fluid expressions. Both translations prioritise fidelity to the language, structure, and culture. The translators’ nuanced and focused work does not omit texts and contexts. It therefore generates supertexts that convey fictional, metafictional, and performative effects within the target narrative realm. The study concludes that the narrative mode resonates across both versions, yet to some distinct degree. Gürol conveys; Freely and Dawe appeal.