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Glossary Narrative Terms in Fiction and Film / Term

Delayed decoding

The technique of presenting a sense impression, but withholding its naming and explication until later in the narrative. Delayed decoding is typically a means of suggesting the subjectivity of consciousness to the readers or narratees. In Heart of Darkness, for instance, the narrator Marlow recounts an attack by telling his narratees that "sticks, little sticks, were flying about" before he names them: Arrows, by Jove!”

Permanent link Delayed decoding - Modification date 2019-12-08 - Creation date 2019-11-28


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