Narrative Space and Time : Representing Impossible

<p>Space is a central topic in cultural and narrative theory today, although in most cases theory assumes Newtonian absolute space. However, the idea of a universal homogeneous space is now obsolete. Black holes, multiple dimensions, quantum entanglement, and spatio-temporal distortions of relativity have passed into culture at large.</p><p>This book examines whether narrative can be used to represent these "impossible" spaces. Impossible topologies abound in ancient mythologies, from the Australian Aborigines' ''dream-time'' to the multiple-layer universe of the Sumerians. More recently, from Alice's adventures in Wonderland to contemporary science fiction’s obsession with black holes and quantum paradoxes, counter-intuitive spaces are a prominent feature of modern and postmodern narrative.</p><p>With the rise and popularization of science fiction, the inventiveness and variety of impossible narrative spaces explodes.</p>