The works
we have looked at this semester all use the element of time in distinct,
unusual ways. In such works, chronological sequences of events are often
altered, time may be suspended, accelerated, even reversed. Such works employ
flashbacks, flashforwards, overlapping sequences, memories, or other devices to
alter the reader’s perception of time or establish relationships among events.
Choose
three works from our common experience. For each, show how the author’s
manipulation of time contributes to the effectiveness
of the work as a whole. This “effectiveness” may in part be based on
the facilitation of plot, but it should also involve consideration of the way
in which altered chronology is related to the meaning of the work as a whole.
If you are able to go even further,
you might attempt to make connections among the works you choose. Perhaps two
authors distort time for similar purposes; perhaps your chosen works illustrate
a distinct range of methods and purposes. Perhaps you will find some other
pattern worthy of discussion.
Your paper should be approximately
7 – 10 pages in length; parenthetical citations should be used for textual
support; any additional information, ideas, or language must, of course, be
scrupulously cited.
See the assignment schedule on my
blog for submission information, electronically on December 11, hard copy on 11th or 12th. Be sure to pay special attention to submission deadlines. On turnitin the assignment will be
label “Final fall 2013.”
