A Study of Notes on the Intangible from the Perspective of Bakhtin's Polyphony Theory
Abstract
The paper adopts Bakhtin's classic polyphonic theory as the core analytical framework to examine the narrative logic and existential ideas embedded in Tiesheng Shi's full-length novelNotes on the Intangible. Combining textual close reading with theoretical research methods, this study analyzes how the novel abandons the traditional single and authoritative narrative perspective, sets up contrapuntal symbolic relationships between different character images, and reorganizes temporal and spatial clues based on personal memory and subjective impression. Such narrative arrangements construct an open textual space featuring equal dialogue and multiple coexisting voices. Rather than conveying fixed philosophical viewpoints through the author's monologue, the novel's reflections on core existential themes, including physical and spiritual disability, interpersonal loneliness, as well as the contradiction between individual difference and universal equality, are fully presented through external dialogues between different characters and internal spiritual conflicts within each individual. The complicated and paradoxical nature of human survival is thus displayed through continuous interactive discourse practice. This narrative attempt not only echoes the core ideas of Bakhtin's dialogism in a concrete literary way, but also reflects Tiesheng Shi's unique creative pursuit of transforming personal life suffering into universal philosophical thinking. It also provides a typical literary case for contemporary Chinese literature to carry profound existential exploration through unique narrative writing.
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