Narative text

Definition

Simply put, a narrative text is a type of text that tells a story or describes a sequence of events.

Purpose

The purpose of a narrative text is to entertain or inform the reader by presenting a series of events in
a coherent and engaging way.

Generic structure

1. Orientation

Orientation sets the stage for the story.

Ideally, the orientation should answer the questions “who,” “where, and “when.”

So, when reading the orientation part, we should be able to identify the character and setting (both
time and place) of the story.

2. Complication

This section contains the problems that occur within a story. It is divided into three parts, namely:

Rising action: Problems begin to emerge

Climax: Peak of the problem

Falling action: The tension of the problem begins to decrease, and the solution starts to emerge

3. Resolution

The resolution is the part of the narrative where the conflict or problem introduced earlier in the
story is resolved or addressed.

This may involve characters finding a solution to their issues, overcoming obstacles, or experiencing
personal growth.

The resolution helps tie up loose ends, providing closure for the reader and allowing them to see
how the events of the story have impacted the characters.

4. Re-orientation / Evaluation

Re-orientation, also known as evaluation, is an optional component of a narrative text that serves to
reflect on the story and its events, reinforcing the moral lesson or theme.
 This section typically appears at the end of the story, providing a summary or commentary on the
characters’ experiences and the consequences of their actions.

It helps the reader understand the significance of the story and encourages them to consider the
message or lesson the author intended to convey.

The points mentioned above are the basic components of a narrative text structure, but it is
important to note that not all narrative texts follow this exact structure.

Some narratives may include additional elements, such as flashbacks, multiple perspectives, or non-
linear timelines. Nevertheless, the basic structure described above provides a useful framework for
understanding and analyzing narrative texts.

Language features

Fictional narrative

A fictional narrative is a story that is not based on real events or real people. It can be a novel, short
story, fable, or fairy tale.

Autobiography

An autobiography is a narrative text that tells the life story of the author, written from a first-person
perspective.

Biography

A biography is a narrative text that tells the life story of someone other than the author, written from
a third-person perspective.

Memoir

A memoir is a narrative text that focuses on a particular period or event in the author’s life, often
written from a first-person perspective.

Legend

A legend is kind of a folklore. It’s a traditional story that has been passed on for generations – it often
explains the origins of a particular culture or society.

Type of narative text

Fable
What is fabel? A fabel is a short allegorical narrative making a moral point, traditionally by means of
animal characters who speak and act like human beings

Fairy tale

What is fairy tale? According to Wikipedia, fairy tale is an English language term for a type of short
narrative corresponding to the French phrase “conte de fée”. A fairy tale typically features such
folkloric characters as fairies, goblins, elves, trolls, dwarves, giants or gnomes, and usually magic or
enchantments

Legend

What is legend? A legend is a narrative of human actions that are perceived both by teller and
listeners to take place within human history. Typically, a legend is a short, traditional and historicized
narrative performed in a conversational mode. Some define legend as folktale.

Science fiction

What is science fiction? According to Basil Davenport. 1955, Science fiction is fiction based upon
some imagined development of science, or upon the extrapolation of a tendency in society. Science
fiction is that class of prose narrative treating of a situation that could not arise in the world we know

Example of narative text

In a dense forest filled with vibrant, mystical creatures, there lived a gentle deer named Luna. Her
silver coat shimmered in the moonlight, and her sparkling blue eyes held the wisdom of the ages.
Luna was beloved by all, as she had the unique ability to heal the wounds and ailments of others.

One day, a fearsome beast invaded the forest, causing chaos and despair among its inhabitants. The
once harmonious realm was now filled with fear and anguish, as the beast’s rampage left destruction
in its wake. The forest dwellers turned to Luna, seeking her guidance and help to face this grave
threat.

Luna, understanding the magnitude of the situation, embarked on a journey to confront the beast.
Along the way, she encountered various challenges and tests of courage, each one strengthening her
resolve and preparing her for the upcoming confrontation. She also gained valuable allies, as the
creatures of the forest united to stand by her side.

Finally, Luna and her companions reached the beast’s lair. As they approached, they discovered that
the creature’s ferocious demeanor masked a deep pain – a thorn embedded in its paw. Luna, moved
by compassion, used her healing touch to remove the thorn and soothe the beast’s pain.

With the thorn gone, the beast’s anger subsided, revealing a gentle giant grateful for Luna’s kindness.
The forest dwellers and the beast formed an alliance, promising to protect and care for one another.
As peace returned to the forest, Luna’s wisdom and compassion became the guiding light for
generations to come. Through her actions, she taught her fellow creatures the importance of
understanding and empathy, even in the face of fear and uncertainty