THE SENSES AND THE PERCEPTION OF THE WORLD IN GULF NARRATIVE DISCOURSE: A STUDY OF “THE TEXTURE OF LIGHT” BY NADIA AL-NAJJAR

Abstract

This study aims to explore the representations of the blind person’s perception of the surrounding world and their symbolic grasp of it, as manifested in narrative discourse, by focusing on a novel in which the blind character occupies the central role. The research employs the neuro-gnostic approach, drawing on insights from gnostic studies, neuroscience, and neuro-gnostic narratology to provide tools for understanding narrative discourse and its mechanisms. The study demonstrates the effectiveness of the neuro-gnostic method in analyzing narrative texts and reveals the operative mechanisms of discourse for individuals with disabilities, stemming from their specific perception of the world due to the absence of a particular sense, which is neurologically, gnoseologically, and narratively compensated through other senses. The research also highlights the artistic features that give the novel its distinctive character. The author employs specific techniques that reveal the blind protagonist’s perception of the world, and the study indicates that this has a profound impact on the reader, who interacts with this unique discourse, empathizes with the character, experiences their pain, and perceives the world through their senses.